Feeling Inspired, Original and Inspirational Art by Valentina Ramos

These days...

2012-02-01T13:03:00.003-05:00

The last days have been really busy here. I now I have been being productive BUT not exactly in the tasks I supposed to be working. The story of my life ;)

These days have been full of:

Working in some special weddings invitations

Tons of new flowers

Cutting fabrics

and not much painting :S

Well... let's see what happen next days!

Flowers and a card

2012-01-25T14:19:00.006-05:00

Today is my wedding anniversary. Two awesome years with a really amazing guy. I told Andrew I don't want presents or anything, just go out and have dinner and I think that is cool enough. Well, he couldn't help and sent me flowers. LOVE IT :). He called a local florist and order this beautiful flowers,

Are not super duper beautiful?

But to be honest the best part was the card...

When I opened the card, I had to double check the card and flowers where really for me, because to be honest, that message DOESN'T MAKE sense to me. "It was great to see you"? Compian? Mi no understand.
Well, I sent a text to Andrew and I told you I got the most beautiful flowers and he was happy I liked, and I told him about the card, because, what was that?
And we "laughed" because when he called to order the flowers he asked to include a card with the message:

"Baby, it's been a great two years. Love Pumpkin"

You can bet I will save this card for evahhh!

P.S: Yes, I call my husband Pumpkin and sometimes Pump... I have no shame.

Stay Focused

2012-01-24T11:38:00.004-05:00

Remember I told you yesterday I was planning to paint and paint and paint ans finished those 5 little canvases? Well, that was my plan, but in some point during the day I found myself coloring in illustrator this drawing

and finishing this one

Why if I KNOW I have a painting deadline I star working in other projects? It's like in my mind I don't have priorities and I jump from one project to another... And you will see me 2 weeks before the show working like a mad girl! Why I always do that?

I really need to learn to keep my attention AND intentions in one thing at the time. How you do that?
I'm going to print this image and carry it with me 24/7. I need to Stay Focused.

How you stay focused?

painting, painting, painting... and watching football

2012-01-23T12:58:00.004-05:00

That is what I did the whole weekend. I spent a lot of time painting... and watching football. BTW, Go Giants! Yeahhh I like football and one of my favorites team is Giants, just because I really like the quarterback :P

In 5 weeks I will be participating in the South Miami Rotary Art Festival and hopefully, at the Carnaval on the Mile. That means, during the next 5 weeks I'll be painting non stop ;) Love that!

The painting party start last Friday.
I make a little pile with all the blank canvases I had in my closet and start thinking: what I'm going to paint now?

I decided to don't over think any thing and just take a few of the little canvases (6x6) and star painting.
I draw some images with pencil and had fun with the paints!

Now these canvases are color ready and it's time to start adding the ink. I'm planning to finish these 5 canvases by the end of the week. Sounds crazy. right? Well... wish me luck!

Ok... and what I'm going to paint in the other 17 canvases?
I need some fresh ideas ;)

Happy week!

2012 So far...

2012-01-11T10:52:00.004-05:00

• I'm still trying to organize my studio...and my brain.

• 11 days into this year and I only had made a whole new drawing.

• I'm working in some commissions work and I cant share any of those images with you :(

• I feel I have to do something challenging (like a ~~daily~~ weekly drawing) to have a good reason to blog more often.

• My brother's wedding is in April and I'm working with him in the invitations. Makes me nervous to do work for my own family. I feel the pressure to do and amazing perfect work.

• So far, this year have been super pack of great news and opportunities, maybe for that reason I still trying to organize my brain and find the way to be a lot more productive.

• My 39th birthday is this Saturday January 14. I never have been crazy about making parties and big celebrations. I told Mr. Harper I just want to visit some friends in an Art Festival, have an Italian dinner and watch the Broncos- Patriots football game. Maybe I will eat a whole chocolate cake and I'll call it a perfect Birthday day.

• This Sunday will be my 9 year anniversary in the US. How is possible I have been here 9 years already?

• I'm going to participate in a big Art Festival at the end of February and possible in other festival the first weekend of March. I should be painting 24/7 for those shows... and still I'm working on organize my brain. Good Job girl.

• I made a big batch of homemade granola. I think I left it a little bit to much on the oven. Mr. Harper told me the granola taste like burned popcorn. Ops!

• Every morning, I drink a shake made with fruits, yogurt, juice and ~~burned popcorn~~ granola.

• I'm trying to go back to my routine and walk in the treadmill at least 45 minutes every day. I was doing pretty well until the Holidays came and mess up with my schedule (lame excuse, right?). To me, the worst part about not working out in really long time is dealing the the guy in the reception in the gym. I feel he look at me and think: "look who finally decide to come back here". Why I have to care so much about what other people think?

• I have been buying canvases like crazy. I think I expecting the inspiration comes inside one of those plastics wraps too...

• Last night, while we're watching the New Hampshire Republican Primary (don't judge me), I cut a lot of fabric to make tea towels.

• I'm stocking my studio with a bunch of goodies to have new things to offer on the South Miami Art Festival this February.

• I'm not big in celebrating my birthday but I'm planning to make this year the best of the 30's

• FeDex just came with a big box for my husband. I recognized the logo in the box. I'm going to get an AWESOME birthday present!. I cant wait to show you want Mr. Harper got me. Love that guy.

• I think my word for 2012 is going to be Grow.

Happy Wednesday!

2012 goals, intentions, plans, ideas...

2012-01-05T19:05:00.002-05:00

I guess many of you already jumped into 2012 with all your Goals and Plans set. I have all my main goals ready for this year, but I have been adding and editing that list many times. I think I have way to many ideas and plans jumping in my head and I'm getting seriously anxious about setting priorities. I decided I'm going to work in 5 main goals this year. I think I can reach those 5 goals, but at the same time I start getting more ideas and things I *believe* I can accomplish. The only way I can keep track of my plans is writing everything down, in that way I can keep track of the things I suppose to do, right?
I made for myself a little page where I can write down the ideas, and I think maybe you will want to use it too ;)

You can click here and download your 2012 Goals page!

Do you already set your plans?
Let's talk more about our cool plans next week!

Christmas presents. part 2

2012-01-02T16:21:00.001-05:00

This year I made some Tea Towels sets. I really liked how they look... I think I will add some of these sets on my shop soon ;)

Happy 2012

2011-12-31T13:38:00.002-05:00

Bye Dear 2011. I cant wait to see what 2012 is going to bring!
Here I have a little present for you. Click here to download your 2012 Calendar here and keep track of this awesome new year.

Happy New Year dear friends!

Christmas presents

2011-12-29T12:39:00.003-05:00

This year we gave some special Christmas presents. I took pictures of some of the presents before packing and shipping and now I can share some of those gifts with you!

This is the pet portrait I made for my brother in law and family :)
Canvas 10x10 - Acrylic and ink.

I'll show you other presents tomorrow ;)

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-23T07:20:00.001-05:00

Wishing you a wonderful Christmas! See you next week :)

Printables PDF calendars!

2011-12-19T12:13:00.004-05:00

The printable PDF calendar are ready! And you can buy yours here :)

This year, I have again the little cute owls and the birds in the tree, and also the new one random flowers (so far, my favorite!)

Your Digital Calendar 2012 comes in 8.5 x 11 sheets in a high resolution PDF file (each page have 2 month)
Each calendar page measures 4-7/8" x 5-1/2 (aprox) when cut out. PERFECT to fix your jewel case stand (calendar desk box)

You can save this file in your computer and then print the onto your own papers for your personal use. Perfect to create Holiday Gifts :)

After your payment is completed, I will email the link to download the files.
Note: Your link will be e-mailed to you within 12/24 hours of a payment received, and probably much sooner.

PLEASE KEEP IN MIND:
These files are for personal use only. You can print as many as you want to use in your personal projects. You cannot resell the files.
(Design All right reserved)

You are awesome!

2011-12-15T18:00:00.002-05:00

Let's the Holidays cleaning continue ;)
I found some sets of these cards between some original art.

These are awesome for gifts and/or to start the year totally inspired!
• 3 oversize inspirational flat cards
• Each card measure 5.47" x 8.50" (half of a letter size) and there are printed on Premium, 80 lb. (215 gsm) glossy card stock.
• The set have one “You are awesome" print, one "You Rock", and one "Everything is going to be ok" print.

$5 + $1.50 shipping

Ohhh Christmas...

2011-12-15T10:15:00.003-05:00

I wish I can show you all the things I'm working right now, but I'll have to wait to after Christmas because the elf here and working non stop in a bunch of Christmas presents... and you never know who is going to read this little blog, right?
Oooohhh Christmas is lovely, but it's a lot of work... and don't get me wrong, I'm seriously grateful for all the work I have. I feel totally bless. But, sometimes it's a little stressful to try to manage everything. Maybe for that reason my favorite holiday-time is Fall, because you have the time and the intentions to enjoy with family and friends, and football, and a lot of food, just chill without being worry about presents.

OK, I have to go back to "production" mood. But before leaving, I want let you know about my dear calendars. Next Monday (hoefully) I will have some cool printable PDF 2012 Calendar to sell here in my blog. Those are going to be PERFECT for all the last minutes gift you will have in your list next week ;) Sooo... stay tune to get yours, ok?

And if you want to get a hard copy calendar with something cute like Owls, well, now is the perfect moment! I only have 5 calendars left!
Soooo hurry up!

Hello 2012 wall calendar:

Full bleed colorful printing

Each page measures approx 11" x 8.5"

Measures approx 11" x 17" when hung on wall

Wire-o bound

250 gsm heavy weight premium thick Paper

$22 + $3 shipping

Gift Tags - Freebie!

2011-12-09T11:26:00.001-05:00

Do you need some cute original gift tags for your Holidays presents?
Well, you can download these ones here and print as many as you want at home!
(click here to download the PDF file)
EnJOY it :)

Papers scrap bags

2011-12-08T09:19:00.005-05:00

I'm having a lot of fun cleaning my studio.
Lat night I prepare some "papers scrap bags". These little bags have a some papers, tags, birds, a flat magnet and a couple of 'She Believed" photo prints! and one or two little postcard surprise ;)

You can use all these things for scrapbook, cards, mini albums, mixed media art, collage, gift tags, decoupage, and more.

I only have 10 bags. Get yours now!
$7 + $1.50 shipping

Fabric Scrap Bags!

2011-12-07T10:55:00.006-05:00

Well, this is the first thing I did after digging a little bit on my supplies. I found a lot of fabrics! And because I have no clue how to sew, I was thinking maybe you will love to grab on of these little bags and make some crafts ;)

I made a total of 10 bags with scraps. Each bag have some pieces of fabrics with my original designs. Each bag is totally different, and the smallest pieces of fabrics there measure around 5x8 (inches). These fabrics are super perfect to make:
- coin bags
- pin cushions
- fabric buttons
- little bags
- patchwork
- quilts
- doll clothing
- mixed media art
... whatever you want ;)

You can buy your bag here!
Only $10 (plus $1.50 shipping)
Have a fun!

SOLD ~ Thank you so much!

Come back tomorrow and see what goodies I will have to share with you ;)

studio sneak peek

2011-12-06T10:10:00.002-05:00

Are you thinking I'm going to show you here a picture of what I'm working on my studio right now?
Well... NO. Indeed, I'm going to show the STATE of my studio right now. I have NO SHAME.

It's really bad... I mean it... REALLY BAD. The worst part in my closet supplies. It's a jungle!
Why I'm showing you these pictures? Well, again, because I don't have shame... kidding (well, a little). I decided it;s time to put things in order here. I know it's the worst time to tackle this kind of project, but honestly, maybe it's the best time to do it. We are in the middle of the Chritsmas season, and this girl here have to start working (fast, really fast) on some presents. I'm pretty sure, in some little corner in the closet I can find some missing treasures, or some cool supplies I totally forgot I have, or some half done artwork. All those things will make AWESOME Christmas presents! Right?
And stay tune, because I bet you I will find some cool things like decal skins, fabrics, papers, and other treasures to share with you.
I can see a lot of crafting projects in my near future...
Happy Tuesday!

Let it snow!

2011-11-30T17:18:00.002-05:00

I can smell Christmas in the air :)
Download your "Let it Snow" coloring page here in this link and play with your kids!

and the winners are

2011-11-29T09:30:00.002-05:00

Well, THANK YOU so much for all the comments!
We decide to pick 2 winners... And the winners are:

Are you one of the winners? Send me an email with your mailing address and I will send you your iPhone3 cases!

Have a awesome week!

Cyber Monday BOGO Sale!

2011-11-28T09:40:00.005-05:00

CyberMonday Sale :) Only for today
Buy one print, get one FREE
Go and check my Etsy shop and start the Holiday Shopping
http://www.etsy.com/shop/valentinadesign

After your order your print(s), during the checkout, let me know which print you want FREE. You don't have to add the free print to your shopping cart ;)

P.S: THANK YOU so much for all your comments in the iPhone 3 case giveaway. I will pick the winners tonight ;) STAY TUNE!!

iPhone 3 cases - Giveaway!

2011-11-23T10:52:00.003-05:00

Well, I finally decided to upgrade my dear iPhone and I'm just waiting for Fedex to deliver my new shinny iPhone 4S. Soooo fancy ;)
And now the cases I used with my iPhone3 are sad :( Poor cute little things!

Do you want these cases? Remember, these are gently used cases, but their are in really good shape, maybe just a few scratches in the corners.

Well, leave a comment in this post and I will randomly pick somebody on Monday.

BTW, talking about Monday, how about having a fancy CYBERMONDAY sale? Do you like the idea?

Happy Thanksgiving!!!
I love love love this Holiday :)

Pillow covers!

2011-11-21T14:23:00.004-05:00

I have some pillow covers ready to sale here in my blog!

Only for 3 days (until this Wednesday Nov 23) you can buy one or two or more pillow covers here in my blog FREE SHIPPING and for only $25 (each cover) ;)

Each pillow cover is made with Upholstery Weight Cotton Twill with one of my original designs and printed on Spoonflower. The back of the pillow have a complementary fabric, closes with a zipper and they do not come with inserts.
The size of each cover is 16x16 (aprox). If you want more pictures or details of the covers, send me an email (click here) or go to my contact page. and I'll be happy to respond all your question!

Under each picture you will find the Buy Now button, and there in PayPal you can pick which of the covers you want.

Happy Monday!

Hello 2012 ~ Tea Towel Calendar!

2011-11-17T12:57:00.005-05:00

My design is in the Top Ten (in the Spoonflower Tea Towel 2102 calender contest)
I'm sooo happy!

You can get your fabric here in this link.
The calendar fit in a Fat Quarter.

Happy Thursday!

My art on TV

2011-11-15T08:53:00.003-05:00

You know the TV show "Kitchen Nightmares"? Well, my artwork was use in the renovation fo a restaurant in last Friday episode. I have been see the episode yet, did you see it?

Here you can see "Moo" in the left size and my "Something good is going to happen" birds in the right side.

Happy Tuesday!

Awesome inspiration source

2011-11-14T11:21:00.002-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I bought this awesome Kal Barteski's mini bus roll. If you come to visit me one day, this is the first thing you are going to see

Cool, right?

Every single morning I read her blog with my cup of coffee. I think she is awesome. Her work and attitude is super inspiring. Sometimes I feel like a totally groupie (in a good normal way!) when I talk about her work :P
I guess you know her already, but in case you haven't see her work, check her blog for a serious doses of awesomeness and inspiration.

Happy Monday!

Coloring page

2011-11-11T11:42:00.002-05:00

Note to myself: Remember to fill up your heart and mind with positives thoughts and wishes.

I think we all have to remember this. Wish good things. Keep your heart full of good feelings.
Download your coloring page here ;)
Have an awesome weekend!

Spoonflower annual tea towel calendar contest

2011-11-10T17:23:00.002-05:00

The 2012 tea towel calendar contest in up at Spoonflower!
This is my submission.

If you liked, you can give me your vote, just click here to go to the contest page.

THANKS!!

My pens

2011-11-09T10:55:00.003-05:00

A lot of people always ask about which pens I use. I have been using rapidograph pens for YEARS. These are the ones I use almost everyday.

One of those pens is almost 20 years old!

Prodcutive weekend

2011-10-31T17:04:00.002-04:00

What a wonderful weekend I had...
We had tons of rain and grey clouds around here, and that means a lot of time to stay inside drawing.

Yes... it's was a really productive weekend!
Cheers for a wonderful new week!

Playing with paint

2011-10-27T10:33:00.002-04:00

...And after the background on my canvases is dry and ready, I take my pencil and draw something... like birds ;)

Now it's time to put some colors on inside those lines

and now my favorite part... hours of quality time with my pen

and the little bird is ready ;)

Happy Thursday!

How I prepare my canvases - Step 2

2011-10-19T10:48:00.002-04:00

I got a couple of questions regarding what I do after I prepared my canvases (with the newspaper and "engrudo" mix). Well here what I do... it's pretty simple ;)
After my little canvases are totally dry, I paint the background. I don't use gesso because (to me) after covering the canvas with the paper and the paste, the surface is ready to paint. Of course, this is the way I do it, and not sure if it's a right or wrong way to prepare your own canvas ;)
Usually I paint the canvas white before adding colors. Sometimes I go ahead and skip the white and I use the color I want to use for the background, but that happen when I already know what I'm going to do in that canvas. Because the way I cover my canvases is a little bit time consuming and REALLY messy, I prefer to do a lot of canvases at the same time, and paint all the backgrounds at the same time too.
For this part of the process I use whatever paints I have around ;) I really never use white white background on my art, it's more like a mix of white with sand color.

See? they don't look white-white

For those canvases I used a mix of all these paints.

Stay tuned for the next step!
Happy awesome Wednesday!

Implementing changes... UPDATE

2011-10-18T12:08:00.002-04:00

Thank you so much for all the comments and "time management" tips :)
My plan was working GREAT, until Mr. Harper and I decided to just forget about being productive and take a super mini vacation!

We spent the last 4 days in California visiting my family in law. Fun times with family :)
And honestly, I think that was a great plan because the next 2 months are going to be craaaaazy with all the preparation for the holidays and 4 craft holiday shows ;)

Soooo... I'm getting ready to start working like a manic here ;) Tons cool things coming up!
Happy Tuesday :)

Implementing changes

2011-10-11T10:42:00.002-04:00

I always have good ideas on how to organize my time but I have a serious trouble in the implementing process. I think my problem is the desire to make the prefect schedule and making all the changes at the same time. Let's get serious here, of course I cannot change and improve everything in just a day.. not even in a week (or month!). So... how about baby steps?

I'll start making changes and improving things on my schedule and I'll tell you the basic things I'm going to do. Maybe some of these steps are good for you too!

Right now is:

What I'm going to do?
1.- Make a To Do list first thing in the morning.
I need a to do list ALL THE TIME but I guess I'll be more efficient if I write my list first thing in the morning... before checking my email.

2.- Set the 3 more important things I have to do today.

Many times my lists can be super overwhelming, for that reason I will make the list but I will mark which 3 things are the more important. I will work on those task, and if I have time, I'll tackle more things.

3.- Disconnect from internet while I'm working on NO internet related tasks.
Internet is taking away half of my productive time! I don't know why I have to check weather.com 20 times a day.

4.- Set "email check" times.
I suffer of a compulsive disorder. I have to check my email every 2 minutes. It's ridiculous. Why I have to do that? Well, NO MAS. Now I'll set times to check the email AND I will do thing like: I cannot check my email until I finish one or two of my to do list tasks.

5.- Use a timer.
If I really want to be productive, I need to organize my time, right? Well, I need to set times per task. Sometimes I'm preparing some files, or doing a new design, or working in a new canvas and I can spent hours doing one of those things AND looking at the window, you know what I mean? Now I have to FOCUS on what I'm doing and stop looking how the grass is growing outside. I'll set a timer.

Those are the basic steps/changes I'll incorporate in my basic routine. In a few days I'll see if those changes work or if I need to do some adjustment.
And little by little I'll start adding more changes... Stay tune ;)

What do you if you need to focus in some specific tasks?
I would love to know what else I should be doing!

Confession

2011-10-10T17:05:00.001-04:00

I really like the TV show The Good Wife (CBS). I Reaaaaally like it the whole show, but definetely my favorite part was seeing my poster in last night episode ;)

Can you see the posters in the back? Those are my "Dream Big" and "You Deserve" prints.

Yeahhh... I'm really happy!

Black and White and Colors

2011-10-07T10:04:00.006-04:00

Meet Bo The Elephant.

I really like him just in black and white

but I think he looks good in colors too

What do you think?

Happy Weekend!

October Calendar wallpaper

2011-10-03T19:54:00.004-04:00

October is here! This is one of my favorites moths. I think fall is the best season. I like it more than Christmas. Fall Rocks ;)
I live in Miami and we really don't have this awesome season :( bummer. But still I can feel (a little bit) the change of the season in the air and the sky look more blue. And I'm SUPER HAPPY :)
Here a little present to celebrate the season!
Click here (or click the image) to download you October Calendar Wallpaper. You can also print it and keep in your bulletin board ;)

Happy Tuesday!

How I prepare my canvases

2011-10-03T10:27:00.003-04:00

You want to know how to prepare your canvases "Valentina's style"? Here my simple tutorial ;)
I love to do this to my canvases because, ONE, I need a really smooth surface to apply the ink to my drawings and TWO, because I love the texture of the canvas after doing this!.

The Ingredients:

- Plain canvases. Also, if you have a old painting you don't liked more, or you are not so happy with what you did, you can reuse that canvas. I do that ALL THE TIME :)
- You will need flour and water
- Pieces of paper. I use whatever I have around. Recycling papers. brown craft paper and mostly all the beautiful unsolicited mail I get EVERY DAY.
- Football game (optional) Well, you can switch this ingredient for whatever you want to watch in the TV or music if you want. I made these canvases yesterday... and that means Football Day in this house.

1.- Cook the "glue". I'm not so sure how you call this, I call it "engrudo". You need one part of flour and 5 or 6 parts of water. I'm not the "engrudo" master, but my cooking system is: Mix the cold water with the flour, put in the stove medium, heat, and stir frequently until you reach a tick consistence. Let the mix cold down.

2.- Setup all the ingredients to start the party. As you can see, I covered the floor with some paper because it's a dirty party.

3.- Dip a piece of paper in the flour+water mix.

4.- Cover your canvas.

5.- Let the canvas dry.

6.- And next day... Voila! Ready to paint!

Easy, right?

Let me know if you have any question.

Happy Monday!

More fabrics... More pillow covers...

2011-09-22T10:51:00.003-04:00

Remember the Pillow Covers I showed you in the last post? Well, again, I really think the quality is awesome and I think the price and the shipping is pretty fair, BUT people sometimes feel a little bit intimidated because the prices are in Euros. To fix that little "problem" I was thinking in make and sell my own pillow cases in my Etsy shop. That was a great plan, until I realize I don't have an idea how to sew :P And yes, of course I can learn, but seriously? Do I really need one more project on my table?

Well, after a little brainstorm, I decided to sell fabrics with my original designs in 18x18 square size. Soooo... now you can get a square piece of my fabric, and you can make your own pillow cover! And of course, you can use the fabric for whatever you want...Hair accessories, button covers, quilting, fabric flowers, bags, collages and more!

You can see all the designs in my Etsy shop.

Hope you like my idea!

Happy Thursday :)

Lovely pillow covers

2011-09-20T13:52:00.003-04:00

I ordered some pillow covers at Envelop and I cant be more happy. LOVE IT. The quality and finish is really good. Both sizes are printed full color and had a hidden zipper. I'm really happy!.

The question is: Should I leave the pillows in the living room and let Mr. Harper to use it or I should keep these cute things safe in my studio? ;)

Happy Tuesday!

Mona Lisa...valentina's style ;)

2011-09-19T11:42:00.002-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, I got an invitation to participate in a group gallery show. The them of the show as an Ode to the Mona Lisa. Each artist had to paint their own interpretation of the Mona Lisa. I found the challenge really interesting and I was wondering how I was going to paint the Mona Lisa's face! Really scary business ;)
I'm not a fine artist at all. I consider myself a graphic artist and portraits are not my strong point. But I had to give it a try, right?
I decided to paint a Mon Lisa using Art Nouveau inspiration. I know portraits are not my "thing" but organic forms,intricate systems of lines, ornaments and details are my cup of tea ;)
Here is my "Hallelujah Mona Lisa" (Acrylic and ink on 12x12 canvas)
I really had fun working in this piece

Happy Monday!

Nothing is impossible... Free print!

2011-09-16T13:35:00.004-04:00

I really believe it...
Click on the image to download your free PDF file, print it and believe it ;)

Happy weekend!

One drawing, different products

2011-09-15T12:25:00.003-04:00

I usually spent a lot of time in each one of my drawings. For that reason I'm always looking for the best way to optimize my time and use each creations in different mediums and products. And it's fun because you have ONE drawing and you have to think how and what you can change to use and reuse (it's this the correct word?) that image. Usually my brain is always spinning thinking in what else I can do ;)
Do you want to see how many things I do with one drawing?

OK. Here we go...

First, everything star with my dear pen and a piece of paper. I usually use water color paper to make my original drawing, but sometimes I just use whatever I found here on my table.

After that, I scan the drawing and with TONS of patience I add the color using illustrator (after I vectorized the scanned image).
When the image is ready with the colors, Mr. Harper pick the name. And with that I made:

1.- Prints, t-shirt, iphone and laptops skins on my Society6 shop

2.- Super cool Duvet Cover (Andrew and I gave this one to my mother in law for her birthday... she love it!).

3.- The same drawing in black and white can look awesome in Shower Curtains (and other things, right?)

4.- And if I take out the flowers and other details, and only use "The Bird", I have other artwork!

5.- You can crop part of your drawing. And using other color scheme, create a totally new image.

6.- And last but no least, I create a pattern with the drawing to be use in last week Spoonflower contsest ;)

One drawing... many options ;)

I will go and check all my old drawings and see how I can reuse it to create new things. It's fun... GO and do the same ;) You don't think it's a good idea?

Happy Thursday!

New product and giveaway!

2011-09-12T12:58:00.002-04:00

Hello Hello, how are you?
I have something new to show you ;)
Now you can get jackets for your iPad, Kindle and Nook with my designs! You can find these lovely things at M-Edge.com

And right now M-Edge is having a super super giveaway in their facebook page! You want to win a FREE Jacket for your iPad, Kindle, or Nook with one of my designs?

Follow M-Edge and 'like' your favorite design in my new photo album to be entered for a chance to win! (click here to go to the facebook album and "like" your favorite design)

Winner will be chosen at random on 9/20 at 12pm EST

Spoonflower + Canvas Prints!

2011-09-09T12:11:00.002-04:00

First, THANK YOU so much for your comments and ideas regarding what I should do with my blog. I’m sooo excited about the new plans and looking forward to share tons of things with you. I love to make these kind of plans because it’s a GREAT motivation to do new things and set new challenges. It’s going to be fun ;)

Well, before leaving you for the weekend, I want to share a couple of things.
Because I’m a super persistent person, I entered again in one of those awesome Spoonflower contest! I guess if I work hard and keep doing; maybe someday I’ll win the first place!
This week theme was birds… well, if the theme is birds, I have to be there, right?
The only tricky thing was the colors. They let you use the restricted palette (black, white, blue -greenish color + a color of your choice. Let me tell you something, I made my design and I was SUPER PROUD of it. Indeed I was silly enough to tell my husband that designs was a winner. Yeah.. .that was just before I saw all the others design in the competition. Holy Cannoli! I could believe how many cool designs entered in that contest. Speechless beautiful stuff, seriously!
I still love my design, and of course, I hope you like it too.

You want to give your vote? Well, you can do it here!
And last but not least, I want to let you know I upload tons of new prints on 8x10 canvas in my shop! I love these little things :)

Check my shop to see the details.

Hope you have an awesome weekend!!
Get ready for next week!

hello there!

2011-09-07T08:32:00.003-04:00

Hi! you remember me? Well, good news, I'm *ALMOST* back ;)
I have been pretty busy with tons of things and trying to figure out the "next step" for my blog. I was planning a long post telling you my ideas, my plans, asking you what you think, etc... but I think will be boring.
In a nutshell, I want to make this blog a more "inspiring" place. I want you come here to see what I doing, but also to get tips, help, ideas, to ask me questions, to share what are you doing... and more!

Well.. that is want I want to do :) And I think will be fun and good!

Sounds like a good idea?
What you will want to see in this blog?
What you will want to learn here?

Pattern Challenge on Threadless!

2011-08-26T18:35:00.002-04:00

Threadless now have a ongoing Pattern Challenge. For now they are accepting designs which will be printed on tons of different types of products.
Of course, I could pass the opportunity to send one design! I'm planning to do, more but first I wanted to see how much "success" I could have accumulation scores. I'm kind of new on Threadless, and I don't know how they pick the designs or if is all base on the public "scores". I guess I will learn.. eventually!
If you want to help me to get a high score and star having my design in other products, you can go and "score" design and my "Doodles" here. If I get a lot of votes I may end up on a bunch of different products - tees, scarves, wall decals, tote bags, and more! yeahhh :)

Click here to Vote... And thanks in advance for your help!

Happy weekend

...and the winner is

2011-08-23T08:18:00.001-04:00

BIG thanks to everybody who participate! Reading your weekend plans was really inspiring! I realize I should be doing more every weekend ;)

Thanks again and I wish you an awesome week!

Giveaway Day!

2011-08-19T08:53:00.003-04:00

It's Friday! Time to celebrate :)

Leave a comment telling me your plans for the weekend and you will participate in the giveaway of "The Elephant" print on canvas.

This piece is printed on canvas fabric, and stretched over a strong anti-warping stretcher (wooden frame)
The canvas measures 14"x 11" x 1" inches and it's printed on the sides. Ready to hang ;)

You have 3 days to participate in this giveaway. I'll randomly pick the lucky winner on Monday August 22.
Have fun!!!

Happy Friday :)

DENY Desings

2011-08-18T09:54:00.003-04:00

A couple of month ago, I partnered with DENYDesigns to have my art in their fabulous Jewelry Boxes. I think their products are great and the Bling Boxes look awesome. Now, DENY Designs just blow up my mind because they are offering MORE fabulous products and they are just making one of my dreams come true. You know what their are doing? Shower Curtains and Duvets... DUVETS people... AWESOME! I swear, one of my biggest goals and dreams is to have like a whole line of home goods. Seeing my designs on duvets just make me more productive because now my mind it's none stop just thinking on new designs and MORE focus on my goal.
Someday you are going to see a "Valentina" Home Goods Line in a BIG store ;) ( Did you hear me UNIVERSE?)

OK. Now you can go to DENY Designs and see the fabulous Shower Curtains:

and these awesome Duvets ;)

And last but not least, I want to let you know something cool! I'm having more prints on canvas on my shop! I really like these ones, and hopefully in a couple of weeks I'm going to have tons of more designs on 8x10 canvas (jut waiting for the big box to arrive on my doorstep)

AND because I'm sooooo happy, I want to make a Giveaway! Come back tomorrow to see the details to participate in the Giveaway of this little friend:

Come back tomorrow!!!!
Happy Thursday :)

sooo happy...

2011-08-11T09:42:00.002-04:00

Because:
1.- My Orange Doodle iPhone case is for sale on Apple Stores AND in apple.com! Super Awesome

2.- I drew a new Owl. His name is Victor

3.- I spy my Peacock print on the Urban Outfitters early Fall catalog :)

4.- The colors are ready on my 3 birds painting. Time for black ink party!

Happy Happy :)

The whale and the thumb

2011-08-08T13:33:00.002-04:00

I had an amazing productive weekend… and I think I got 5 lbs more because I ate like is not tomorrow ;)
Soooo… I finished the whale I was working on last week! Yes… that was a whale, obviously, right?

I was a little bit afraid because out of the blue I decided to make a little collage/ découpe thing in the artwork and I was afraid wasn’t going to look good PLUS would take days.

I can happily report, the idea wasn’t bad at all. Indeed I like it a lot and I start doing more artwork with that mixed media style.

In other news… you remember I told you I got a cut in my thumb? Six stitches. Ouch! And 7 days with heavy antibiotics (because got badly infected) .Well, my thumb right now is a rock start! Perfectly heal and working great. I’m super happy I didn’t lost any nerves feeling, because I really need the tip of my thumb when I’m drawing ;) I’m really happy…. BUT I don’t know how this happen but for some reason my thumb now have a bump.

I guess I have an accumulation of scar tissue or something like that. Whatever... I don’t care, I wasn’t planning to be a hands model :P

Happy Monday!!

This weekend...

2011-08-05T11:04:00.004-04:00

Because I work at home, to me, weekends are almost the same as week days. I don have that TGIF feeling because if I want, everyday can be Fridays, right? But usually Andrew and I always try to do something to look forward every weekend. We are really laid back and simple. We look forward to have a couple of beers at the local bars, cook something special on Sunday, maybe go to the movies, going to some places to spy my work...You know... basic simple happy life. But one thing I love to do to mark the different between weekends and week days is to have a new project to tackle. This weekend I'll start painting a big canvas! I have 2 canvases 24x30 sitting in my studio staring at me ALL THE TIME, and I think its time to get some courage and start painting!. I already draw with pencil the main image.

But before I tackle that project, I have to finish this piece:

So far... I'm loving this weekend!!
What are you going to do?

Top Ten Spoonflower contest

2011-08-04T09:39:00.003-04:00

Ops! I totally forgot to show you my submission for this week contest.

The theme was "Coffee" ONLY with 3 colors ;)
And this is my submission, "Retro Coffee"

and guess what? My design is in the Top Ten!

What you think?

On my table...

2011-08-03T11:56:00.001-04:00

Happy Wednesday ;)

Oisch!

2011-08-02T14:51:00.004-04:00

I had to make a print with one of my favorites words... OISCH!
(I love the print, but I think the t-shirt is funny, check it here)

Happy Tuesday!

Hello August!

2011-08-01T10:32:00.005-04:00

It's cleaning time! I'm organizing my supplies/artwork closet and I have tons of things for giveaways and sale ;)

• Scrap papers with my originals designs!
Perfect for scrapbooks, cards, gift tags, collage and more.

You can check the details and buy the packs on my Etsy shop :) Just click here!

Happy Birtday sista!

2011-07-28T11:23:00.002-04:00

Today is Andreina's birthday! My sister is turning 40 years old today and I think is super cool because she looks awesome and she she have 3 amazing kids! I don't know how she does it.
I wish I can be in Amsterdam to celebrate with her today.... maybe next year? ;) Woohoo!!!!

P.S: This picture was 6 years ago (I think) celebrating her birthday here in Miami.

Bravebird

2011-07-27T16:30:00.004-04:00

Thanks for the comments regarding my nest head, sorry I mean my hair ;)
BTW, Mr. Harper didn't ask me to grow my hair, he just said he haven't see me with long hair, for that reason I decided to grow it just to show him why short hair rocks ;)

Ok... and talking about nest hair, guess what? I painted ANOTHER bird! Soo original, right?
Well, this is the deal. I feel I have been a little bit slow in the last month creation new artwork on canvas. I love paint, but sometimes I have other projects around and I don't have time to play with my paints and canvases. Some people maybe think I lost my "mojo" because I haven't create much in the past months, but it's no true. I have been working a lot in other things like more art for my licensing representative and commission work. But because I haven't made anything on canvas in long time, my hand and mind need to warmup. And instead of waiting for my mind to decide what I wanted to paint, I just took the easy way and painted something familiar. And thanks to that I start feeling the creativity coming back.
Love it ;)

And here the pictures of Bravebird...
You liked? I made it with acrylic and ink on canvas 8x10

Love always wins...

2011-07-25T15:54:00.003-04:00

I really like short hair. I think is cool, easy to take care and super perfect for hot weather.
I enjoy having my hair short short super short... Like in this picture.

You don't think is cool?

Well... My dear Mr. Harper think short hair is cool BUT he wanted to see me with long hair. And yes, I like my short hair but I love him... soooo... I'm trying to grow my hair ;)

My new hair style is call: "I really love my husband" ;)
Happy Monday!

Prints on canvas

2011-07-21T14:04:00.002-04:00

I have been doing a serious research to find the best way to offer my prints on canvas. I have been looking for prices, sizes, materials, etc. One day I found a place with really fair prices and I ordered a couple of my designs to see the quality. I was really happy with the print, but the problem was in the stretched frame… I mean the wood wasn’t bad (well… wasn’t perfect either!) The problem was I had to stretch and mount the canvas. And I didn’t have idea how to do that ;S Yes, guilty… I’m an artist and I never stretched a canvas before. Well, I gave those pretty prints a try. Wasn’t difficult, but I wanted the canvas to be super duper perfect! I guess with practice I will “achieve” perfection (yeahhh right)

What you think?

I already posted these canvases on my shop ;)

Happy Thursday!

Things I want to share...

2011-07-14T19:10:00.004-04:00

I have tons of new things to share with you!

I was thinking after stitches on my thumb were out, I was going to be blogging and painting and creating a new world of things. I was sooo excited and happy on my way to the doctor last Monday. Well, things didn't work as planned. The doctor took out the stitches but my poor little thumb had a little infection :( sniff, sniff.. She gave me a few antibiotics and I went back home to "rest". Well, a few hours later my poor thumb was looking pretty rough and the wound start to open up a little bit. UGLY and SCARY. Went back to the doctor. Diagnosis, a no pretty at all infection :( And now I'm under the influence of a very heavy doses of antibiotics and trying to "rest" and wait to my thumb to heal. Today the wound is looking REALLY BETTER and I'm soooo happy about it!
Sooo... all these nice things I want to share with you, will have to wait until next week. But at least you can have a sneak peak.

Happy Thursday!

Time Off

2011-07-06T17:04:00.004-04:00

I believe everybody in some point have to take some time off. A lot of people slow down on Summer and I think it's a great idea. I know I deserve and I should take some "slow down" days to plan, to rest, to enjoy a piña colada, etc... But looks like I never really can take time off without feeling guilty! I feel I have to be doing something all the time. And I know that is wrong... but well, want can I do? I love my "work" and sometimes I don't feel I'm working... to me it's fun.
And sometimes, doesn't matter how much you think you have to do, or how much you think you have to work... sometimes you HAVE to take a few days off, because you don't have other option...

Cute bandage, right?
I was planning to show you the six stitches I got in my right thumb, but I think the picture it's not cute at all.
Well... Time off until the doctor take out the stitches.
Enjoy the rest of the week!

New drawing....

2011-06-27T17:22:00.004-04:00

I have a new drawing in my Society 6 shop! I don't remember when was the last time I posted a new drawing there :S Maybe it's because is Summer, and I live in Miami, and it's HOT and that means I'm seriously sleepy, ALL THE TIME. The heat takes all my energy. Or at least that is my excuse to take naps... No, I'm not pregnant, I'm just lazy and I love naps ;)

Well... hope you like "Octopus Bloom". I think he is cool ;)

Happy Monday!

Bunch of Loveys

2011-06-20T16:35:00.002-04:00

I think I should call this post, Cute Cute Super Cute ;)
A couple of weeks ago I send my fabrics samples to Andreina from Bunch of Bees… and look what she did!

LOVE IT!. The little blankets and the mouse pads look awesome and plus the pictures are GREAT, I think she is a super duper talented girl… and she have twins… And work from home part-time. How she do it? Yes, she rocks.
You can check her shop here (go and check it, your will love it!) and also you can like her facebook page too ;) Just click here!.

I think this is a lovely cute way to start the week, right?

;)

2011-06-17T12:31:00.000-04:00

Murals your way and a quote

2011-06-15T11:11:00.003-04:00

I have something new to show you!
Now, you can find some of my art at MuralsYourWay! Here in this link you can check all the designs I have there. I think the Sitting Buddha and the Ganesha would look great in a Yoga Studio ;) Well, that is what I think!

Here a few samples...

And look I found the perfect Motto for his week! (and for the next, and the next, and the next!)

Happy Wednesday!

It's going to be a great week ;)

2011-06-13T13:56:00.003-04:00

I don't know you, but I woke up full of energy and with zillion of ideas in my brain. Awesome! Hopefully the energies and the productivity vibes are going to be high the whole week. Did you hear me Universe??? energy + productivity, that is my sweet request for the week... Ahhh and also, please, I ~~want~~ KNOW my dear husband is having a super duper great positive checkup at the doctor today, ok? That is MUY importante, ok?
Well, because I know the Universe is listing my sweet request, I have to do my part too and work and be proactive and all those awesome things.
and look... I have been doing my part! Here 3 cool things to share with you ;)

1.- I have some cool new artwork totally ready in my shop with names and everything!
Here is "Azure Treasure" (original painting on 8x8 canvas)

You want to buy the original? Click here!

and here is Born to Fly (original painting on 8x8 canvas)

And here the link to my shop ;)

2.- I just added to my shop the print "Moo" and "Sitting Buddha" printed on canvas material. Each one measure 11x14 and I think they look pretty cool.

Check my shop!

3.- Mr. Harper and I went to the mall yesterday and of course I had to do a couple of very important stops. First, to check The Elephant at Urban Outfitters and after that, Barnes and Noble to see my blog banner in the Banners We Love in the summer edition of Artful Blogging! Yeahhhh :)

Happy Monday!

Organizing, deciding, planning and selling...

2011-06-09T09:25:00.006-04:00

Yesterday I took ALL the original drawings I have on paper (different kinds of papers) and I made little piles. Some are ready for sale, some are going to stay with me forever ;) and some will need some cool tricks and twists to go to my shop soon. I was really surprise of the amount of art work there. Some of the drawings are made in really tick 9x12 watercolor papers with only black ink, and those are super to play with. I will take those drawings and work backwards, NOW I will add the color using acrylic, watercolors, crayons or markers. I don’t know how is going to work but I guess it is going to be fun!

Here some of the drawings I have ready to live in other sweet home.
If you want to see more pictures or details or if you have questions, send me an email, OK?

- Life is Good.
Original drawing. Pen and ink on 9x12 (approx) watercolor paper.

- Green Circles
Original drawing. Ink and acrylic on watercolor paper. Image size 6.5 x 4.5 (approx) The drawing come with a black 8x10 mat | $25
(shipping included)

- Live your Dream
Original drawing. Pen and ink on 9.5 x 7 (approx) watercolor paper

Happy Thursday!

lots of ink... and patience

2011-06-07T14:22:00.002-04:00

Someday I'll figure out what to do with all my original drawings...
Maybe I will sell some... or maybe I'll just cover all my studio walls ;)

June Goals

2011-06-06T16:28:00.003-04:00

Dear June... I'm really happy you are here. May was really stressful and I'm happy to just leave you in the past with all those medical issues too. Bye Bye May!

June, you had a serious rocky start, but I have big hopes for you, so please, work with me, OK?

Well, last Wednesday I was working in my fabulous June To do list, you know, that list where you write down all the great things you want to do, like do more artwork, update shops, create more fabrics, contact more companies, rock the world, etc...

But after a couple of not happy incidents, I decided to keep that list next to me, but don't take it so serious. Life is AWESOME but it's uncertain too. Soo... I decide to create a more realistic list of things I'll do this month. And June it's going to be GREAT.

Happy Monday!

Got the fabrics!

2011-05-31T12:32:00.002-04:00

Super! I got the fabrics samples. And I LOVE IT!

The colors and quality are great. I'm super duper happy ;) You can check all the samples photos on my Facebook page (click here!) and if you want to get some of these fabrics, go and visit my Spoonflower shop (here!).
Happy Tuesday!

New fabrics ~ Coming soon!

2011-05-25T10:20:00.002-04:00

I'm sitting next to the mailbox waiting for the samples of these fabrics designs. The package should be here soon... I cant wait to see all the test swatches, and hopefully add these fabrics on my Spoonflower shop.

How I pick a color scheme

2011-05-19T13:01:00.003-04:00

Many times, when I create patterns or new drawings, I already have a color scheme in mind. Many times I draw and draw and draw and NO IDEA which colors I’m going to use. Like every single normal person, I need some daily inspiration to keep going. And honestly I think it’s not better source of inspiration than internet! I have to constraint myself to don’t spent hours looking for pictures, reading inspirational blogs, playing on Flickr, etc… And still I haven’t play with Pinterest, because I’m afraid is going to be a new dangerous addiction ;)

Yesterday I was creating a flower pattern and I knew I wanted to use orange (and that is normal, because I use orange all the time!) but I needed a little bit more of inspiration for the whole scheme. And here I will tell you the simple technique I use to apply my “internet searches inspiration” into my drawings ;)

1.- I try to identify my mood. I want something super colorful or something neutral? I’m feeling Morocco style or more like a desert mood?
2.- Go online and try to find a picture inspiration in no more of 1 hour. Because if I stay online longer, I know I will never going to finish what I suppose to do!
3.- Save the lovely picture and remember where you found in case you will use it in you blog and you need to credit the picture.
4.- In Illustrator, I create a little color chart using the predominant colors in the picture.
5.- Use those colors into the drawing.

And here you can see the product of my search and final pattern.

Inspiration + the color chart I created:

Final pattern:

… and regarding the point #3.. well.. I forgot to write down where I found the picture! Ops! Sorry :S

Hope you are having a great Thursday!

My new 2 friends

2011-05-18T14:18:00.003-04:00

You remember these drawings?

Well, after a Illustrator session and now they look like these:

Happy Wednesday!

more about the process and a new print

2011-05-17T16:36:00.003-04:00

Thanks for the comments regarding my process to create my original art on canvas. I got a couple of questions regarding my idea of covering the canvases with newspaper and paper mache. I do it because I LOVE the texture! You don’t need to do it, but if you want to create a little bit different and interesting texture on you canvas I totally recommend you to do this.
I really love to see a little bit of the newspaper under the paint. What you think?

Also, I got a couple of question regarding my pens. I use Koh I Noor Rapidographs pens with black ink. I can’t live without my pens ;).
If you have more questions about my process or materials, go ahead and leave me a comment ;) I will try to respond tomorrow!

Before leaving I want to let you know about something “new” on my shop. Well… the print it’s not new at all, but after many request, I finally I have the print in 11x14.
Check the listing here!

Happy Tuesday!

The process...

2011-05-16T16:17:00.004-04:00

You want to know a little bit more about how I do my artwork?
Well here the basic 5 easy steps ;)

1.- I cover my canvases with newspaper and paper maché
2.- Paint the background
3.- With a pencil I draw whatever I’m planning to paint.
4.- Put some color
5.- My favorite part, tons and tons of little details with black ink.

Happy Monday!

A new chicken in town

2011-05-06T17:00:00.004-04:00

His real name is "I was a Dinosaur". And he is having fun at my Society6 shop ;)

Happy Mother's Day weekend!

Doodles and a butterfly

2011-05-05T14:27:00.003-04:00

I really liked this week Spoonflower contest. The theme is “black and White” and you know how much I love drawing in black and white, right?
Well… I couldn’t help and I made some doodle/flowers for the contest. This is my submission.

I really like this pattern. I’m not sure if works perfectly for fabric but you can bet I’ll use it for other stuff like iPhone cases ;) I’m planning to color a little bit the pattern and sell it as fabrics but also in skins for laptops and phones because I think will be cool ;)
I would love to ask you to vote for my design, but I think this contest is a little bit overwhelming. Tons and tons of entries and because all the designs are black and white I found difficult to find a specific design, make sense? You can click here and check the contest. And of course, if you find my fabric, you can vote for it. Thanks in advance!

Ok. And now about the Butterfly!
Today I have this cute little Butterfly for sale here in my blog.
I painted this Butterfly in a 6x6 (1.5 deep) canvas.

The Butterfly
$55 + 10 shipping

Happy Thursday!

New things are coming…

2011-05-04T12:00:00.004-04:00

I have a cute little pile of canvases ready to paint. As you can see I don’t use gesso to prepare my canvases. I use old school paper-mache. The texture is awesome, at least to me!
I have been a little bit distracted lately and I totally miss painting. But I feel my mojo is coming back and I’m ready to tackle tons of new things and projects.
I believe if you want to receive and create new things you have to create space for those things. And I’m talking in “open space” mentally and physically. New things are coming… It’s going to be fun ;) A few things have to go to open space for the new projects.

You want to get some of my Original Artwork? For a few days, I’ll post one piece for sale!

Today, we have this Coi. This is an original painting on 8x10 canvas.

Coi: $105 + $10 Shipping

You can also check the SRING SALE section on my Etsy shop. You will find more cool things ;)

Come back tomorrow for other daily sale and to check my submission for the Spoonflower weekly contest! The theme was “Black and White”. Lovely theme...

See you tomorrow!

Mother's Day Special ~ Get a FREE print :)

2011-04-29T12:27:00.002-04:00

From Thursday, April 28 to Saturday, April 30, purchase a 8x10 or 11x14 PRINT in my Etsy Shop and you will get a FREE PRINT!

Send me a little note in the “message to seller” or email me to let me know which free print you want.(Limit one 8x10 free print per order) Click here to visit my Shop!

All domestic orders will ship Priority Mail, and packages should reach their destination in 2-3 days. Just in time for Mother's day!

Happy Royal Day ;)

My weekend

2011-04-25T20:53:00.002-04:00

Ohhh.. What a wonderful weekend I had. I spent 3 days just drawing, watching Netflix online and eating :) Just the perfect mix to make me happy.
Now my desk looks like a mini farm with all these animals ;)

You had a good weekend too?

Happy Easter!

2011-04-21T17:26:00.003-04:00

Are you looking for a little project to play with your kids during this weekend?
Click here to download a this Easter Bunny coloring page :)

Enjoy it and Happy Easter!

Aaron (the print)

2011-04-14T15:05:00.004-04:00

Look! I made a digital version print of Aaron.

The print and orginal are in my Etsy shop (and in my Society6 shop too) Happy Wednesday!

5 things I did...

2011-04-12T12:02:00.007-04:00

These are the things I did in the last days (besides watching golf) 1.- A new print for my Esty and Society 6 shop. With the usual t-shirt, laptop and iPhone cover/skin.

2.- I changed my iPhone cover ;)

3.- Put all the fabrics swatches I have together and trying to figure out what to do with this little package.

4.- Working on some patterns books.

5.- Created a new section on my Etsy shop with all the prints of my SPRING SALE. Go and check it! Happy Tuesday!

Downtime

2011-04-06T16:54:00.006-04:00

Things have been quite here. I think I’m in my Downtime phase. I’m trying to organize my mind and brainstorm about the next step. Right now I think it’s ok to just allow the world to go by and refuel my creative mind ;) I think right now is a good time to do nothing, and I’m giving myself permission to be on downtime, at least for a few days!I’m looking forward for the next 4 days.
You are not going to believe it, ort maybe you think I’m just nuts (well, I think that too) but the next four days are going to be great. I’m going to chill, drawing and planning the next creative projects watching THE MASTER. Yeap… GOLF. And I can’t wait.

Before leaving you to enjoy my ~~golftime~~ downtime, I want to show you the new prints available in my shop.

Happy April!

New Fabrics

2011-04-01T13:51:00.002-04:00

Hello there! I just posted some new fabrics on my Spoonflower profile ;) Check the fabrics here! Well.. this is a really short post. Hope you have an amazing weekend! BTW... what is April doing here??? I swear I was think we were still in the middle of February or so ;)

More Spring Sale!

2011-03-30T14:28:00.008-04:00

I have more prints to add on my super Spring/cleaning sale!

This time I have some 11x14 prints on photography paper and you can get yours for only $18!! (+ shipping)

Check my Spring Sale in my shop !

Spring Cleaning ~UPDATE~

2011-03-29T15:31:00.012-04:00

It’s time to clean up a little bit my studio to make space for new things. I always get super excited just thinking on changes and new things. Sooo cool. OK. I have here 8 prints to sale. Each print measure 12x18 and they’re printed on photographic paper. They are really cute and the quality is great. Each print only $20! (+ shipping)

Check my Spring Sale in my shop !

Happy Spring!

Super Random

2011-03-28T13:47:00.005-04:00

1.- Last week Spoonflower fabrics contest was “Squid”. For some inexplicable reason, I didn’t show you my submission… and I didn’t ask you to vote for me! Weird right? Well, this was my submission. And you want to know something? I finished 2nd! Go cuteness ;)

2.- And because cuteness is always good, I decided to participate in the Project Selvage, A competition to find Michael Miller Fabrics’ next licensed designer! Cool, right? Well, the theme for the competition is Baby Boy Print, and I think boys always love Dinosaurs, right? Here my submission:

You can read more about Project Selvage here.

3.- I always wanted to draw a whale, and finally last week I finished one I start like 3 weeks ago. My dear whale looks like this:

And after scanning and coloring in illustrator, I uploaded the print in my Society6 shop and now created some cool things like the laptop skin, iPhone case and t-shirt. Mr. Harper picked the name (because that is his job in this business!). Meet Deep Violet:

4.- Last weekend I had an amazing fun showcase at The Stage in the Miami Design District. The picture is really bad because (as usual!) I didn’t have my camera and my iPhone 3 it’s not so good for taking pictures, but you can get the idea of how the wall looks.

5.- Talking about shows. I’m looking forward to create a lot of art right now. I have been trying to find a balance between creating original artwork on canvas and creating art to license. Right now I’m feeling the need to paint. To paint A LOT. I love to paint for the sake of painting, but I realize I’m a lot of more productive and a lot more focus if I have a specific goal in my mind. Right now I’m looking for places where I can show/sale my work. Galleries, stores, restaurants, bar, lounge, you name it... I want to be in a group show or in a solo show! I want to paint AND have a place to show the artwork. You know or you own a place where you my artwork fit? Well, send me an email and we can start planning! ;)

6.- And talking about painting. I have these 2 canvases looking at me here in my studio...

I dont usually paint in large scale. The biggest piece I had made is a 24x20 elephant (my actual favorite piece). But these 2 canvases have been patiently waiting for me. 24x30. Hhhmmm... I think I’m ready to tackle this project this week, but I don’t know what to paint! What you think? Suggestions?

Happy random Monday!!!

All freebies!

2011-03-24T14:13:00.003-04:00

After almost 400 posts, yesterday I decided to “tag” my posts. Crazy idea! Well… I create an irrational list of categories and tried to tag the posts. I only did 100… more than enough! But I think I will have to re create those categories, because in general lines they are a tad weird. Like I have new products, my designs, new prints, new work… What??? All those tags should be only ONE tag, right?

Well… I will try to fix it (some day in 2014), but one thing I found cool is to have all the little freebies and download in just one place! Now if you click in the tab “free downloads” in the top navigation, you can find all the post I had made with little freebies! I think they are around 23 little things there. Hope all the links are still working ;)

Enjoy it!!!

Hello Spring!

2011-03-22T09:31:00.003-04:00

Somebody told me spring was here! Well, I live in Miami and usually the most dramatic change I feel with this season change is the daylight saving time (not my favorite thing!). But doesn’t matter if I feel the change of the season or not, I do love spring and all the possibilities for change/renew and spring cleaning. LOVE IT!

And here I have a little spring-ish present for you ;)

4 letter size patterns paper a little spring color inspiring! What you can do with these papers? Well… you can print it and make little gift wrapping, or you can make cards or thank you notes, or you can frame it, or whatever you want ;) (but of course, you cannot sell the files!)

Click here to download your PDF file with the 4 papers.

Happy Spring!

Today is your lucky day ;)

2011-03-17T12:23:00.005-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!
You got my newsletter?

Sign up here to receive the lucky discount code ;)

Cute new patterns

2011-03-15T12:10:00.004-04:00

Well, I guess by now you are a little bit tired of seeing patterns with birds and little flowers, but honestly, I think those little things make super cute patterns and designs.

I think they are cute! (And they are in my Society 6 shop)

And how about something to decorate your kids room or nursery? What you think?

P.S: And those Owls and Birds patterns are coming on fabrics SOON SOON SOON.. Stay tune!

Happy Tuesday :)

Carnaval on the Mile 2011

2011-03-10T09:41:00.005-05:00

Last weekend I participated at the Carnaval on The Mile festival. I had tons of fun and I really enjoyed my time there. Monetarily speaking, I think the show was a success because I was prepared of what to expect. The festival was free entrance for the attendees and has TONS of free concerts in different stages, free children activities, great food and A LOT of wonderful art and craft. I knew (well, I suspect) the festival was going to be pack with tons of family who were willing to spent the weekend surrounded with awesome (free) music, have some drinks and eat… and of course wondering around the art tents, but not willing to spent the big bucks on art but always happy if they could get a little bit art for little money. Of course in that kind of festival you can find people who is looking to buy a nice piece of art regardless the price, and you have to be ready for that, but my focus for the festival was having TONS of prints in different sizes/ different prices.

Also I had a lot of my original art, because that is what I do, and with the original it’s easy to explain my technique ;) I think I did well. I sold a lot of prints in all sizes (11x14, 8x10, 5x7, 4x6) and I recover every singles penny I invest for the show with some profit. Also, I made some really good contacts and that is always awesome!

And definitely, one of my favorite’s things of doing shows is seeing all my friends! It’s like having a personal party. I love it!
This was my first 2 days show, and was fun, but honestly, I think for the future I will sick with one day shows only. I was exhausted! It’s A LOT of work and definitely you need help. Andrew and I were there to setup at 6 am on Saturday morning and we closed the tent at 11:00pm, and Sunday we worked form 10:00 am until 9:00pm. My body was in some much pain! Yeah.. definitely I’m soooo out of shape :P
If you ask me for a little advice after my experience, I will hardly recommend you to know which the target of the festival is. I believe if people have to pay an entrance to go to the festival, they will go to buy. If the show is a free festival for all age groups, I think they will go to wonder around and just spent a great day outside. I think you always have to be prepared and try to have items in different prices. AND please, don’t forget TONS and TONS of business cards… and comfy shoes ;)

P.D: Sorry the bad pictures! I didnt have much time to take better ones.

Happy Thursday!!!

Urban Outfitters March 2011 Catalog

2011-03-09T12:18:00.003-05:00

How cool is this?

Spoonflower "Paisley" design contest

2011-03-08T12:39:00.002-05:00

After couples of month’s hiatus, I’m participating again in a Spoonflower fabric contest!
This week theme is “Paisley” and this is my design:

I called it Spring Paisley because the colors are base in the 2011 Pantone Spring colors ;)
You like my design? Go and vote here!

Thank you and happy Tuesday!

Dreams of India...

2011-03-07T10:52:00.003-05:00

You remember him?

After hours (a lot of hours) “Dreams of India” is ready! He was with me during the Carnaval on the Mile festival ;)

The Carnaval festival was awesome! We had tons of fun (and hard work!). I’ll share a little bit more about the weekend (and the way I displayed my work)
Right now I have to try to put my studio in order and catch up with my Etsy orders.

Happy Monday!

126 designs

2011-03-03T11:15:00.002-05:00

To decorate one of the sizes on my tent during this weekend festival, I designed and ordered in Spoonflower 4 yards of fabric. 108.00in x 72.00in of fabric. 126 designs. Well… 125 design because I just realize I repeat one of the designs. Ops!

I guess I will have a new quilt after the show.
Happy Thursday!

painting, printing, packing, repeat...

2011-03-01T14:49:00.004-05:00

New weekend I’ll be selling in a big festival. Because of that, my life the last days has been turmoil of painting, printing, and packing. If you come to visit me at my studio, you will see a lot of these:

Hopefully next week my life is going back to normal and I’ll have time to read all my favorite blogs and respond all the emails I have in my “answer NOW” folder. If you are waiting for an email from me, I’ll write you next week ;) Ooohhh dear blogosphere friends, I can’t wait to have a cup a coffee and expend hours reading all those wonderful posts in my reader…

Happy March!!!

Still on a Mission

2011-02-23T10:04:00.002-05:00

The mission is not over. Well… maybe is 65% over. Birds are ready… now it’s time to focus in the elephant ;)

Happy Wednesday!