Hello you!

It’s that time of the week. You know what I’m talking about, right? It’s time to feature awesome people!

Today we’re going to have a chat with Rachael Ashe - an emerging artist that uses recycled materials and found objects to create altered books and collages. Did I mention she also loves photography? Yeah, total rad-o-rama over here!

By the way the long weekend is upon us, which means a possible road trip AND lots of delicious pics. Stay tuned for next week’s “The Week in Images”

Let’s get the chat with Rachael started:

Who is Rachael?

I am an emerging multi-disciplinary artist, working in a number of media such as altered books, mixed media collage, paper cutting, and photography. I love working with recycled materials and found objects as much as possible. I live in East Vancouver with an entrepreneurial technologist and a small yellow bird, both of whom constantly inspire and keep me laughing.

When did you start making art?

I was drawn to art-making from childhood. First it was drawing and painting, and then photography. Up until about four years ago I was focused only on photography, mainly creative portraiture. As I transitioned from film to digital, I felt drawn to more tactile work in the form of collage, and this eventually led to working with books. At the moment I am entirely focused on  paper-based work in the form of collage and paper cutting, as well as altered books.

What are altered books?

The term altered books covers any art form that uses old books as a material. I use existing hardcover books I either find or buy second-hand to create sculptural assemblage collage.

What’s your favorite medium to work on?

I love trying different things and experimenting, which is why I end up working in many different mediums. At the moment paper is definitely my favourite, and I’m contemplating ways I can create larger pieces than I have to date.

What are some basic tools we would need if we wanted to create some altered books?

All someone really needs is a book and creative thinking, because there are many things one can do that don’t require any additional tools. Scissors, glue, gel medium, an xacto knife, and a bone folder knife are the basic tools I work with most often.

How do you recharge your creative batteries?

I recharge my creative batteries by getting out of the city for a change of scene, spending time in nature, and visiting the studios of artists I admire. I also get a recharge by experimenting with new materials or process because it can inspire ideas and lead to new work.

What would be your advice for people that want to pursue a career in art but don’t know where to start?

An important part of being an artist is to reach out to other artists and engage your community. I’ve learned a lot about being a professional artist by participating in events that have brought me into contact with more experienced artists. Most people are willing to share knowledge and experience, and it’s important to any career type to create strong connections with the people in your field. Don’t expect anyone to just hand you all the answers though.

Holy laser-cut precision, Batman! (all by hand though)

Her work is a beautiful mix of patterns, textures and nature. Visit Rachael’s Etsy shop to get your hands in some of her collages or follow her on Instagram and watch the magic of mixed media unfold before your eyes (you’ll also get a few sneak peeks of her AWESOME little bird)

Happy weekend!

Laura Redburn // Cardboard Cities  is a British illustrator that has a soft spot for giant women taking over landscapes, skyscrapers and even some planets. Talk about girl power!

Looking at these beauties reminds me that I really have to make some time to get my collages done – I still have a pile of magazines I bought at the flea market last summer! I promised myself that as soon as the sun is out I’ll hit the park armed with glue, scissors, old mags and I’ll get’er done.

In the meantime let’s all enjoy the lovely work of Laura…and dream of giant girls taking over the world, yeah? Too frightening? Ok then, let’s go for the safer approach and grab a few of her prints over at Society6 

all images: Laura Redburn 

Sometimes when your eyes are busy catching millions of images a day – ads, emails, instagram! – you feel like taking a little break and indulging in simple pleasures.

Francisca Pageo‘s work is one of those pleasures. Her mix media collages are an oasis of subtle tones  and simple lines – such a nice break, isn’t it?

I like how art has such power over your mood. After a day of running around, Francisca’s work feels like a restful breeze, right?

Enjoy friends!

all images: Francisca Pageo

via: art hound

Happy Friday amigos!

Wow, this week went flying didn’t it? Monday came and first thing you know, boom! You’re already making Easter eggs.

Today I have a little interview for you with collage artist Jenny Brown. I found Jenny’s art while browsing through Mammoth and Company - a mega cool site where you can buy beautiful, affordable art. The colour, details and jellyfish-like shapes in Jenny’s work made my heart skip a beat – hence, she’s an Artful Friday-ee.

Sit down, get comfy and enjoy the interview!

T.A.D. Who is Jenny Brown?

Jenny: I am an artist living and working in Providence, Rhode Island. My primary mediums are drawing and collage, and I have a special interest in working with found materials.

T.A.D. When did you start making art?

Jenny: I began making art as a child. I loved drawing houses and creating my own blueprints and city maps. I got serious about my work when I was about 19 and a student at Bennington, and at the time was very focused on painting.

T.A.D. What or who influences your art?

Jenny: I am influenced by nature in the sense that I feel like I am always trying to “understand” the natural world in my work. My lifelong hobby of collecting antiques brought me to my interest in found papers, photographs and books.

I felt as I began to mature as an artist, I needed to find a way to bring these found materials into my work. As for artists, one of my earliest influences was the work of Philip Guston. Right now, I love looking at the work of Mary Delaney, a British artist who created an amazing series of botanical drawings in the 1700s.

T.A.D. What’s on your current playlist?

Jenny: the past weeks I’ve been listening to The Black Keys, Radiohead’s “The Bends,” Kate Bush and jazz works by Wes Montgomery. An odd collection, I know, but it keeps me going!

T.A.D. What do you do to recharge your creative batteries?

Jenny: When I get frustrated with my work, I like to step away and do something completely different…errands, clean, buckle down at my day job. And always, after a few hours away, I feel calmer. I remember how lucky I am to be able to make art, and that I need to remember it isn’t something to stress about, but rather, something to have fun with and enjoy!

Great advice Jenny! I think sometimes all us get trapped in the stress ball of “I HAVE to do [insert occupation/hobby here]” and we forget about the fun part. Whether you’re creating art as hobby or as a full-time job, you should always remember to enjoy it! If you don’t, then creativity will say laters dude! Gonna get a new mind to inspire, and you don’t want that right?

Lucky for you it’s the long weekend! So take some time for yourself – pamper your soul. Promise?

Jenny! Thanks so much for your time and sharing a little glimpse into your creative life.

Happy weekend everyone :)

Don’t forget to give Jenny some LOVE by sending her a tweet or visiting her site. Even better, get some of her beautiful art over at Mammoth and Company.

Desperados!

Prepare yourselves for a good dose of colour and digital collage. Seriously, go get a drink cuz this post is going to be intense – who cares if it’s early in the day – just go get some, it’s the weekend anyways.

Last week while I was away on vaca south of the border and in between siestas I became really addicted to Instagram (more than before! Oh and if we aren’t Insta friends yet, we should be – add me up yo @ArtfulDesperado). I didn’t know there was such a HUGE creative community in there! That’s how I found the art of Kristian Ingers. From tortilla experiences (yah! you gotta read the interview) to collaborations, Kristian enjoys every step of the creative process.

So, without further ado I give you Mr. Ingers!

T.A.D. - Who is Kristian Ingers?

Kristian: I am a 32-year old Arts and Crafts teacher from Malmö, Sweden. I also work with exploring digital craftsmanship. 

T.A.D. - When did you start making art?

Kristian: After school I started working in a tortilla factory, sorting tortillas. Bad burnt ones in one pile and white pale ones in another pile. The minute I was done for the day I would rush home and paint all night.

The painting kept me sane despite staring at the round tortilla shapes in front of me all day. A year later, I went to university and was involved in some film projects. I got more and more interested in the possibilities within digital media.

My illustrations I sometimes see as sketches for paintings. I now have small kids running around at home and it´s hard to bring out paint and start working so it’s much easier to do it with a laptop and a Wacom board.

T.A.D. - What online tools do you use to connect with other creative minds?

Kristian: I post a lot of my work in the Instagram community. I like all the creativity from other users and the feedback.

I have done collaborations with other Instagram users, the process is fantastic – different media like drawing, painting, collage and digital editing in a non-profit enviroment, just for the fun of it – is very inspiring.

T.A.D. – What do you do to boost your creativity?

Kristian: I read books and magazines about architecture and art. I get a lot of inspiration from architecture. I also try to see a lot of art shows. There are some great institutions and galleries in Malmö. Across the bridge is Copenhagen, with an even greater scene. I have a lot of creative friends and I also get a lot of input from my wife, Sara.

T.A.D. What are some of your favorite Swedish artists?

Kristian: For colors Jens Fänge, for lo-fi Jockum Nordström, for geometric lo-fi Torsten Andersson and for scenery and landscape Karin Mamma Andersson. These are just a few, there are so many.

Art by Jens Fänge

Art by Torsten Andersson

T.A.D. – What’s your favorite meal?

Kristian: It’s called ”Flying Jacob”. Chicken, nuts and bananas, served with rice. Classic 80′s dish!

That sounds pretty good, doesn’t it? Guys, if you are around Kristian’s area (which would be freakin’ fantastic!) you can check out a show he’s having with other friends for Easter. For more info you can email him: kristian (at) artyartwork.com

Thanks so much for your time and awesome inspiration Kristian!

So what you say guys? Did this post make you feel all energized and inspired? Of course it did, right? Always remember when you’re feeling a bit under the weather (from either sorting tortillas or doing other daily duties you don’t necessarily like), there’s a creative community out there waiting for you!

Happy weekend everyone :)

Kristian’s instagram: @kristianingers

Site: ArtyArtWork