What Are You Grateful For?

It seems like a simple question, but is it something you really think about daily?

For me the answer would have been no. Yes, I’m grateful, but I really only thought about it on a special occasion, or maybe when I was able to sleep an extra couple of hours on the weekend (I cherish my sleep).

For a very long time I’ve taken medication for depression and anxiety. Lately I’ve been researching various natural remedies and practices that could change my attitude, beliefs, habits, and general wellness. I started to read articles and watch videos in my search for change and gratitude kept presenting itself. I had no idea that there is scientific proof that gratitude can actually change your brain! I also discovered that the way I was thinking was directly effecting my body and my experiences. I had become “comfortable in my own misery” (I love that phrase) thinking that nothing would change…so nothing changed. Yes, thoughts can be toxic and debilitating!

Let's Play With Some Jello!

Actually, it's gelatin printmaking, but it's more or less printing with jello.

Saturday, September 89am-1pmMacnider Art Museum, Mason City, IA
Fee: $45 (non-members), $40 (members)
Enroll at: http://macniderart.org/sample-page/education/class-registration-form/

Must be 16+ to enroll
Gelatin printmaking is an easy and fun method of printmaking that can be used for fine art, scrapbooking, crafts, and so much more! Even if you've never done any form of printmaking before, or think you don't have a creative bone in your body, then this fun and easy way to loosen up and to re-connect with your creative side is for you.

By the time you finish this workshop you will have a stack of beautiful patterned papers and will be equipped with the skill to confidently print your own designs on paper or fabric. You will also get printed instructions of what you've learned so you can print at home.

All materials are non-toxic, but you may want to bring an apron or old shirt to wear.

Printmaking with Plants

YouTube has become my guilty pleasure. There is a wealth of information out there that is just waiting to be discovered.

I recently found video after video tutorial about eco printing with plants. It's also called boiled paper, because the vegitation is sandwiched between paper, like noodles in a lasagna.

I was immediately captivated by the colors and textures that can be achieved. When I say achieved, I mean achieved by artists on YouTube. I couldn't wait to get started and tried it out in my kitchen the next day. I tried this method twice with no beautiful textures, no leaf impressions of any kind. All I achieved is some soggy paper and a few wasted afternoons. 

I didn't give up!