Back to Work Until New Years!

Good Morning Everyone,
Hope you all had a Merry Christmas.
Now that I’m back at work for a few days until New Years, I decided to post the next group of “SkyBirds” I finished before the Holidays. I think this one is my Favorite just because she came out looking so relaxed.
First link is the sketch I did on Backing Board, Pencil and then went over the lines in ink.
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=33392102

Next I painted it with Water Colors
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=33392103

Finished, sorry the picture is a little blurry but I will scan it later.
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=33392104
Let me know what you think.
Thanks for looking.
~Caralyn

Sky Bird Fly Away Home

Hello Everyone!
I told you I have started new art on some Comic Backing Boards…I did too!
Anyway here is the first one I finished. I started out with a pencil sketch on the white board. After that I inked it, usually I like to use pen but with this particular one all I had at arms reach was sharpie so the lines are a bit thinker then the others.
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=33244973

When I was ready to paint I started with the background using water color paint. I did a mixture of pink and orange and then just added white clouds over that. Then purple and I just added the squiggly lines cause I liked them. :)
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=33244975

Next I started painting her…I tried to stay in the lines but with painting that gets hard so then I just painted over them
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=33244976
but never fear a small bit of water on a thin brush helps clean those lines right up when you are done making a mess :)

Whelp let me know what you think of her. SkyBird is the title for now.

http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=33244978

Thanks for looking, keep checking my blog for more art updates!
~Caralyn

Love me Some Wolverine

My fiancé is a Comic Book junkie…yep, I’ve never been much for reading the stories even though, like most people I’m a fan of the Characters and I never past up a Super hero Movie :) I mean who doesn’t Love Hugh Jackman as Wolverine…Everybody loves him! But I digress..I do however love flipping through his books and checking out the art. Comic Book art is the best, dark, think lines, extreme colors. It’s my kind of illustrations. Recently I have found another wonderful use for his comic books…BACKING BOARDS! The little stiff cardboard that goes in the back of the bag. They are perfect for fun, quick pictures. A nice white thin canvas that water colors, markers, acrylics, you name it, glides on like a breeze. So to his dismay I’ve been snatching a few boards and letting my creative juices flow. I don’t even use a table, I just flop down on the couch infront of the TV and sketch my little heart out. It’s been nice. Lucky for my fiancé you can buy backing boards for cheap…he is gonna have to stock up now :P.
Okay so I told you all this because I have a few pictures that I have done on my new Comic Book size canvases. They are just some little things I doodled while watching Christmas movies. I’ve started painting them and I’m excited about how they are turning out.
I’ve run on too long on this blog but I just wanted to give you a heads up. I’m going to be posting them in the next couple of days. So Please keep checking my blog for updates.

Thanks for reading, now get back to thinking about Hugh Jackman….sigh :)
~Caralyn

I do Believe in Fairies

Hey Friends,
Just wanted to ask you all to check out a treasury I’m featured in on Etsy.
http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=100171

Have a great day!
~Caralyn

Scratch and Sniff

Well I’ve just finished some scratch art that I’m excited about. It turned out really well and it’s something a little different. I did a big clock and a woman on a staircase…I think it came out a bit surreal…could just be me.
So the idea came to me while flipping through one of my Spectrum Art books I love so much. I found a picture that had a clock in the background and I was thinking how cool that would look in Scratch Board. But the clock couldn’t be all by it’s self so I tried to add a women that appeared to be waiting, since she had a big Ol’ Clock right behind her…and putting her on the stairs seemed to complete the whole “waiting” effect.
Scratch Art is easier once you get the hang of it. I usually start out by drawing a small rough draft on paper of how I want it to look,
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=33073102
then lightly draw it in pencil on the board before scratching. I find this helps me to not mess up…since there is no erase on Scratch Board.
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=33073103
Then I get-a scratchin!
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=33073106
Finished! Working Title is Waiting til Midnight, What do you think?
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=33073109

Thanks for looking, keep checking my blog for updates on my newest art work.
~Caralyn

Beary Cool

Hey Friends!
I just thought I'd share that I was featured in a treasury by Krishenka on Etsy. Check it out
http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=77985

Beary Cool isn't it :)

Thanks!
~Caralyn

Hear Those Sleigh Bells Ring-a-Ling?

Good Morning Friends,
The Holiday Season is fast approaching and if you are anything like me you want to get an early start so you can make sure to get everyone taken care of before the crazy last minute rush…Of course that is never how it happens for me…just like last year I’ll be pushing and shoving old ladies in the electronics isle to get the last i-phone 3 seconds before Christmas eve. But it just wouldn’t be the Holidays without a little violence :P
But for those of you who would like to avoid people like me around this time of year and order your gifts off line (the safe way to shop) I have all kinds of cute gifts in my cafépress store. T-Shirts, Coffee Cups, Baby Clothes, just about everything. Also adorable Christmas Cards for those of you who still have friends and Families that read real paper letters in the mail…Yeah not e-cards sent on the computer but REAL paper…I know it’s weird.

Please Check out my shop for your Holiday ideas
http://www.cafepress.com/mysticreflect

Thanks for looking and Happy Shopping.
~Caralyn

Prints on Etsy

Good Day Friends!
I’m excited to say that I have started adding prints to my Etsy Store! Until this weekend I have only had my sculptures for sale online but I have begun adding my Drawings as well.
I sketch my drawings using pencil/pen/ink and then scan my drawing into Photoshop to continue the detail work and coloring. I only have a few up so far but I am adding more everyday so Please Check out the below link for the Prints :)
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18529279

Drawing is a hobby I really enjoy and have done since I was very young. I hope you enjoy my artwork as much as I enjoy making it. Please feel free to check out my other creations on my website:
www.mysticreflections.com

Thanks for looking!
~Caralyn

Hassle Free Art

Hello Friends!
I have been working on a painting for the past few days and WHOOT I finished it! I extremely enjoyed painting this one because it was what I like to call a “hassle free” painting. I just grabbed a brush and a canvas and started adding color. I am someone who begins a picture by first deciding what I want to do, then drawing a rough draft, then expanding on the rough draft, then revising it and Then FINALLY inking it before painting or adding color. With this painting I skipped all my normal steps and just got right to it. I had no idea where I was going with it or what the outcome would be and I tell ya …it was invigorating. Yes I find spontaneous painting to be very exciting…I’m a simple kinda girl. But it turned out really good… surprisingly.
Anyhoo I’ve posted the it along with a few pictures of the process I took to get it there. With this one instead of painting the characters first as I usually do, I started with the background then added on top of that. I had to wait for each layer to dry before adding the next…I used oil so it took a while to dry so next time I think I’ll try watercolor.
So here it is, Let me know what you think.
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=32773618

Thanks for looking, I’ve started on a few other projects so keep checking my blog for updates.
~Caralyn

Ball Jointed Art Dolls

Greetings Art Fans!

I’d like to introduced you to an art fad that has been growing rapidly the pass years. Ball Jointed Art Dolls! These dolls are articulated with ball and socket joints and cast in polyurethane resin (a hard, dense plastic) and the parts are strung together with a think elastic…so they are kinda like G-I-Joes. These Dolls are made easy to customize, by painting their face, changing the eyes and hair and clothes. And these aren’t just for kids…in fact the majority of people that adore these dolls are adults…and who could blame them, you never grow out of wanting to play with dolls :)
A friend just recently sent me to a blog filled with exciting customized Dolls. Each one is unique and the detail is incredible. I really enjoyed scrolling through this Blog “OtherSide”, I don’t have the resources right now for such delicate dolls but the creative face makeup inspires me, so you may be seeing some interesting sculptures by me soon!

Check out the “OtherSide” Blogspot
http://otherside-zun.blogspot.com/search/label/Make%20up

Happy Arting!
~Caralyn

Odd in a Good Way

Hello All!
I just wanted to share with you all that my Myxies were featured in a delightful little blog where they love to “Spread the Odd Love” Please check it out and don’t forget to leave a comment.

http://celebrateoddetsy.blogspot.com/2009/11/mxyies-by-mystic-reflections.html

Thanks for looking :)

Have a great day,
~Caralyn

Look Ma, NO HANDS!

Hello Friends!

Yes I know, I haven’t been posting anything for you recently but I’ve been busy…or as most people call it lazy. But so you don’t think I have abandoned you I have been working on a brand new picture that I finished last night and made sure to have it ready to post today. Ya know it’s just cause I love you so much :)
Anyhoo about the picture. So I usually sketch a picture on paper, ink it and then scan it into the computer to add the color. With this one I actually started it in MS Paint Brush…then transferred it to PhotoShop, yep pencil never touched paper with this bad boy…Don’t know why, probably because I was drawing it at work and it is easier to look busy when working on the computer :D Not sure why I found that little tidbit so fascinating, but I’ve shared it with you all and I hope you enjoyed it.
Whelp on to the main event, I call it Wounded Angel for now, I’m still thinking about that title.
Let me know what you think.
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1475118&imageID=32398681

Thanks for looking, I have started arting it up again so I’ll be posting more, Keep checking my blog for updates.
~Caralyn

I Feel so Special!

Hello Everyone!
I just wanted to let you all know about two lovely people that posted my work today.

Deb makes wonderful crochet gifts that are sold on Etsy.com. She was nice enough to feature me in a treasury she made on the site. A “BEARY” Cute treasury :)

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=72008 bear treasury Debs Crochet

You all know Fran Caldwell, she is the talented painter that blogged about my Myxies a few months back, well she’s done it again. Please take a look at the great blog she wrote about my sculptures and Please check out her site too.

http://www.francaldwell.blogspot.com Fran Caldwell

Thank you for looking and have a great weekend Everyone!
~Caralyn

It's About Time!

Hello Friends, I know, it’s been a while since I blogged for you…I’ve been kinda busy so I’ve put it off. But thanks for being so patient with my procrastination. :)
Here is a Few of my Favorite and newest Myxies to join my little family. I made most of these specifically for the Dragon Con Art Gallery. I normally post about any new ones that I sculpt but things where so crazy before and after Dragon Con that I let it slip my mind, so I figured better late then never. I hope the links work for everyone and Please feel free to let me know what you think of the little ones. Enjoy!

http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.68634834.jpg Tulip- I was going for a Tinkerbell style.
http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.90150763.jpg Dulcimer
http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.89814015.jpg Malicia- my 3rd and best Harpy in my opinion.
http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.89808314.jpg Coral- really happy with how this mermaids tail came out.
http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.89770624.jpg Flit
http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.89800547.jpg Kelp
http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.89795917.jpg Icicle
http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.89781439.jpg Piper
http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.89774851.jpg Weaver- Tryied to make her look like a spider, I think I accomplished it.
http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.89778427.jpg Spirit- my 1st and only Centaur..for now, hoping to make lots more.

You can find these and all my Myxies on Etsy.
Thanks for looking

~Caralyn

Uninspirotivated

Ugh it is hard for me to get back into the swing of things. I have been trying to draw since I got back from Dragon Con but I just don’t have it in me for some reason. I’m unmotivated and uninspired right now so whenever I touch pencil to paper I find myself just sitting there starring. I don’t know what it is…perhaps I burned myself out a bit from the rush before D-Con or maybe I’m just too distracted with other things right now…either way it is Annoying! I have a whole slew of things I should be working on, I got a few commissions at the Con and I have some personal projects I have been putting off until a more opportune time. I think it has to do with my engagement…Yes I’m getting married! It happened over my vacation YAY! I’m super excited about it but I think that is all I can think about right now so my art is being put on the back burner. Yeah I know a lot goes into getting hitched so spending all my time on planning isn’t a bad thing Buuuuuut my art business also needs some attention. I need to dedicate sometime so I don’t get rusty…and besides I still have a few shows coming up during the Holidays. I just have to get motivated, I’ve been trying by reading my art books and watching Fantasy based movies, and that seems to be working a smidge. Well wish me luck everyone, Thanks for letting me rant, you guys are great listeners :P

Hopefully I will have some new art to post for you all soon, Wish me luck :)
~Caralyn

Dragon Con withdrawals

Sorry it took me so long to blog about Dragon Con, there is always so much stuff to catch up on after a long vacation.
Well I’m glad to report that Dragon Con went smoothly. A great deal less hectic then last year. I think it went really well. I sold some prints and a bunch of my Myxies found new homes along with there dragon pals. The trading cards I was working on are all gone now so I’m probably going to start doing those every year, people seem to really like them. Also I was extremely excited to sell a painting and a scratch board in my gallery. YAY!
As always I met a barrage of interesting people. The artists that attend D-Con are always generous folks that willingly give me all kinds of advise. So are the people that stop by my booth, I seem to have the most colorful conversations with them. As always thank you to everyone that stopped by to see me. I got a lot of feedback that was greatly appreciated.
While I was there a met a few ladies that run FroliCon an adult SiFi Convention that is held every Easter weekend. http://frolicon.net/default.aspx They really enjoyed my work and they asked me if I would be interested in doing the concept art for their 3rd year. It’s so exciting so I’ll let you know how that goes. I also got to met a talented artist Peter Steigerwald who works for Aspen Comics. He gave me some advise and tips on my art, I’ll admit I went a little fan crazy on him. There was some nerd-dom…it was embarrassing. :P
All in all my 2nd year at Dragon Con was a success I think so I will definitely be signing up for it next year.

Thanks everyone!
Caralyn

It's GO TIME!

Wow Dragon Con is only a few days away. It is going to be very exciting this year. I have a Ton of new stuff. I have done about 20 new pictures that will be for sale in the Art Gallery. They are all original paintings and scratch art. I also have brand new Myxies for the auction. Including a few “special” sculptures like a Centaur and Harpy. I’ve got some prints of my newest PhotoShop pictures that I have been blogging about, they will be at my table along with new dragon sculptures. I’m a little nervous this only being my second year in the Dragon Con art show but I’m really excited to see the turn out. I’ve been working really hard to get everything prepared and now It’s GO TIME :P
It would be super awesome if you all came by to check out my booth…or just to say HI, I will be there for 4 DAYS so you can stop by to see how I’m holding up :) Thanks to all of you who take the time to read my crazy blogs and I hope to see you all at the D-CON!!!
http://www.dragoncon.org/index.php

P.S. I’ll be out of town for about a week and before that I don’t think I’ll have much access to a computer so it’ll be a little while before you hear from me again…I know it’s heartbreaking :P but I will tell you all about it when I get back. Wish me Luck!

Have a great week Everyone!
~Caralyn

It was Summery AND Shady at Grant Park!

Well I’m back from my weekend at Summer Shade and I’m in one piece. YAY! It wasn’t a bad show despite the sky falling. It rained almost the entire time Sunday! So of course the turn out wasn’t as big as expected but surprisingly there were a few brave souls that battled the rain to look at some art. Thank you folks for being as crazy and as wet as I was this weekend :)
Saturday was LOVELY however. Nice and cool, sunny but not the “Good God my skin is burning” kind of sunny…the nice kind.
We had a pretty good conglomeration of peoples. Both buyers and potential buyers…they are gonna buy they just don’t know it yet…but the Myxies will call to them…Oh yes my darlings just you wait…..ANYway, I was nervous about two big shows back to back but this weekend went well so I’m gung ho (whatever that means) and ready for Dragon Con…maybe.
Well thanks everyone that stopped by to see me and I’ll see you next weekend!

Tootles!
~Caralyn

Working Like a Dawg

I’m actually almost done with everything I had to do for Dragon Con. I’m finishing up the little dragons, I only have about 7 more to go…and they don’t take long…and after that I won’t be doing anymore art until Dragon Con is over.
I have frames for everything now and I’m working on hanging them. My sister has generously volunteered to make a special frame for one of my larger paintings. The painting is my rendition of Alice in Wonderland so the frame is going to be made out of playing cards…Cool huh? I can’t wait to see how it turns out.
Other then the framing I will be matting some of my prints to sell and updating my portfolio. I have only two weeks before the Con so I’m hustling to make sure everything is ready not to mention getting ready for a two day show the weekend before Dragon Con…what was I thinking scheduling them so close…Oh well. The Show is Summer Shade festival in Grant park. I will be selling Myxies and prints so you should all stop by to see me :)
http://gpconservancy.org/summershade

Anyway I gotta get back to work…I’ll try and post again before D-Con so check back.
~Caralyn

Exclusive You Say...Sounds Important

Hello Friends!
I have alot of ideas for new art that I want to get done but right now I have absolutly no time to go finding new projects to add to my list. I'm still going crazy trying to get ready for Dragon Con though my list is starting to get smaller and smaller...but there is one extra thing I desided to do for the Con...but it's just something small that I thought would be neat. I found these fun little canvases...yeah they are like trading cards but you paint them yourself. Cool huh! So I got 10 of the little buggahs and I'm making some special "con exclusive" drawings. They are coming along nicly and todays was exspecialy fun to draw that is why I wanted to share it with you. I thought it was cute.
Oh and don't worry about me not having enough time to finish my new pictures...I'm doing them while I am bored at work...so I have plenty of time :P
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1474921&imageID=30905807

Getting really close to D-Con but I'll keep trying to post updates of my work.

Tootles
~Caralyn

The Headache of the Week

Man, Dragon Con snuck up on me…I was thinking I had plenty of time and then BOOM it hits me that it is only a month away. I still have so much I need to get done before the show. I’m sure I’ll have time I just HATE running crazy the last minute. I was hoping to have everything done at least a month before. Alas it never goes as smoothly as I plan.
The headache of this week is trying to get frames for the art I am hanging in the Gallery. I have gone to numerous stores looking for the right frames for each piece…the problem is some of my art is not a traditional size so frames are almost impossible to find. You have to have them custom made and that can take awhile and as I said I’M RUNNING OUT OF TIME! I know, I know, I should’ve started earlier well…one like I said I thought I had more time and two I come from a long line of procrastinators…it’s in my blood, not my fault. So the race is on, I’m scrambling to get this stuff done while finishing my art and working full time. Good Lord I need a vacation. But underneath all the stress I’m super excited about the Con this year. I have bunches of new art for the Gallery and PrintShop. Also have an auction table this year for a few special sculptures. And since I did it last year I will know a little more of what to expect so it’s not so stressful. But it’s still crunch time so I will get back to haphazardly preparing for Dragon Con.
Keep checking my blog for updates of my work and my stress level :P

~Caralyn

Please Help the Fight

I’m sure your life has been affected by Breast Cancer or you know someone who has. To help the fight, I am having a charity auction to raise money for the Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk.
In honor of a very strong women Phyllis French, that lost her battle to breast cancer earlier this year. Her daughter Holly is trying to raise money to walk the 3-day this year... every bit counts. 100% of the proceeds from this auction will go to Holly French Smith to help in her walk.
In support of Holly and her journey, I have designed a one of a kind Myxie sculpture in memory of Phyllis. Her name is Hope, and she wears an outfit of pink ribbons. Additionally, we will match the winning bid dollar for dollar up to $250 dollars. Please take a look and whatever you can give is greatly appreciated.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140336815061

If you want to sponsor Holly French directly, go here...

http://www.the3day.org/site/TR/Walk/AtlantaEvent2009?px=1551061&pg=personal&fr_id=1291


Thank you for your Support.
~Caralyn

The Steps of Myxie Making

Good Day all,
I am steadily working on new Myxies for the up coming SiFi Convention Dragon Con. I have already got a few completely sculpted and baked and just have a couple more to finish. While I’m working on them I thought you all might enjoy seeing how my little creations get made.
I start off with a long piece of craft wire. I then twist the wire in certain places where it needs to be more sturdy such as the upper arms, legs and the torso. Then I cover the wire with polymer Clay around the torso and thighs and mold it in the shape I want. Using rubber tipped tools I sculpt the details before adding the legs and arms.
I then sculpt the feet separate and slide them on the wire. After the feet are attached I CAREFULLY bend the whole thing to the position I want. I left out the steps where I mess up and yell and whine profusely….but that is a major step in making a Myxie :P
There are a few more steps before it is complete but I will post them later. For now here are a few photos to show you what I’m talking about.

http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=30553563

Thanks for looking, keep checking my blog for more updates on my Myxies.

~Caralyn

I'm Myxielicious!

Hey!
So I finished the paintings I was working on for Dragon Con and have started on brand new Myxies. It has been about 6 months since I have scultped anything so I'm feeling a little rusty. The 1st one I worked on took me 6 hours to sculpt compared to my normal 4-5. Also I find myself having to start over a bit more then normal. But I have only finished a few, I plan to make at least 12 to 15 in all so I will have plenty of time to pratice. But I'm not just going to make my traditional Myxies the goal is to have a large verity of mythical creatures to sell at D-Con. I plan to make a few pans, mermaids and maybe something new that I haven't tried before like a Centaur. I don't know how well it will work out yet and it depends on how much time I have.
I have been taking a few photos while I sculpt my Myxies that I was planning to post for you all, but alas my computer is still acting crazy so no photos today.
Keep checking my blog for updates on what I'm working on for Dragon Con.

Tootles!
~Caralyn

The Quest Begins

I’m FINISHED! I’m finally done with my Fantasy Painting. I filled in the hair and eyes of all the creatures and darkened the lines and shadowing. I used mostly acrylic paints and painting took me about sixteen hours. My goodness what a chore :) I have named it “The Quest Begins”…I know what you are thinking…that’s the best name ever...you don’t have to tell me :P
Well here it is, let me know what you think.
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=30074530

I am now going to get started on new Myxies, I will try and keep you updated on how it’s going and maybe post a few progress photos, so keep checking my blog.

Have a great day!
~Caralyn

Just About Done

Well I’m getting down to the last little details on my painting now. I have added a red coat of paint to the Dragon now and filled in the hooves and talons of most the creatures. On the bottom picture I added highlights and scales, also I painted the wrist band and axe of the Minotaur. As always when working on a picture I see things I want to change but with painting it’s a bit harder to erase but either way I am happy with how it’s turning out.
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=29990234

I will post one more blog once I finish so check my blog next week to see the completed piece.
Thank for looking.

~Caralyn

Moving Right Along

Okay so now I’ve started on the background. First I worked on the land, abundant with hills and a few bushes. At the bottom of the picture I used some browns to fade the green hills into a sort of dirt road. Next was the sky…I was going for a sunset so I used a couple different colors. Starting with a light blue and ending with orange just above the hills.
In the second picture I added detail, clouds in the sky and filled in the outline of the castle. Then I made the hills all grassy by painting small blades of grass…yes it took a long time. Also added a few cracks and stones at the bottom to make the “dirt road” appearance and highlights to the bushes. Now the background is complete it’s time to finish paintin dem critters!

http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=29934578

Just about done I have about two more blogs on my progress so keep checking for updates.

Thank you for looking!
~Caralyn

If the Back Ground Fits...

The painting is coming right along. I have added shadowing to just about every creature. I shaded most the creatures with different shades of brown and then softened them with a light color over the shading. After it is dry I will add highlights and details. But before adding details I will start on the background. I’m thinking I will do some rolling hills with a few trees and in the distance a castle…yes yes I know…very cliché but it’s a picture of a bunch of Fantasy Creatures running around together, so what other background would fit? I mean really.
Anyhoo here are a few pictures so you can see what I was talking about. Enjoy :)

http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=29708870

Have a few more pictures to post so keep checking my blog for updates.
Thanks for looking

~Caralyn

How It's Going so Far...

Hey Everyone,
As you probably know I have been working on a Large Fantasy Painting for Dragon Con. This is a picture that I have been drawing and redrawing since I was a child. In all I have done this picture 4 times, it started out a small picture on notebook paper, then redrawn on 8x10 printer paper. The last one was about 11x17 colored and laminated then given to my mother as a present, not sure if she kept it but no matter because I’m doing it again. This time It is about a 30x24 piece and is the 2nd largest painting I’ve ever done so I’m kinda nervous as to how it will turn out.
I told you all I would keep you up dated on my progress so I included a few pictures so you can see how it is coming along.
Okay first I started with sketching a few of the creatures I wanted to have on it. I arranged the sketches on the canvas and once I had them where I wanted them I drew them on the canvas its self. After tracing over the lines in ink I started to paint the largest part of the whole painting…the Dragon…Ooooooo. I’m using a dark oil/acrylic paint to shade the dragon but once the shading is done I will paint over it in red.
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1828666&imageID=29568590

I have a few more pictures to post as I finish so keep checking my blog for updates.
Thanks for looking.

~Caralyn

Last Two...Don't Cry

Okay I know I said I only had one more picture to post but I forgot about a picture I was working on that I got TOTALLY frustrated with cause I couldn’t come up with a good background. So I kinda throw it to the side and worked on other pictures BUT I went back to it and was able to do a background that I could be happy with so I’m posting it also. But these two will probably be the last PhotoShop images for a while because I’ll be working on paintings and Myxies. You know you are all super excited about the new Myxies…Come on I can totally tell…just kidding :P

This first one is the one that I was having so much trouble with, see I wanted to do a stain glass window behind her that sort of told her story but for the life of me couldn’t get it to look right. After fighting with it for hours I took out a few of the images that I had in the stain glass originally and just went with the simple clouds and flames. It still gives the viewer and idea of what her story is but leaves more to the imagination then I had planned. But that’s not a bad thing. I call it Self-inflicted
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1475118&imageID=29460684

I think this one is my favorite of all my new art. Took me FOREVER to do her hair and then about that long to get the bubbles the way I wanted. It didn’t come out at all the way I pictured it in my head but still came out great I think. I call it Posing Siren
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1475118&imageID=29460747

That’s it for the PhotoShop pictures for a little while but I might try and post pictures of my paintings as I finish them so keep checking my blog for updates. Thanks for looking.

~Caralyn

Not What You Expected, Isn’t Always a Bad Thing

Well I had a pretty specific plan I was going to follow to get prepared for Dragon Con, but unfortunately time is running out so I have to make a new plan. I originally had about 15 pictures I was going to have completed for the con but alas I color too slow, so I have only finished about half that. I have a painting or two I still need to complete and then I have to get started on the Myxies. But I have finished two new pictures in PhotoShop that I am posting today and then I have one more that should be done this week that I will post. So don’t worry…you will have 3 more pictures to enjoy for now. :)

The first one is really just a doodled I did at a show that I never really intended to color but I liked her and it gave me a chance to try out a few of the tools PhotoShop has. Unfortunately it doesn’t have a title yet.
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1475118&imageID=29255600

This picture was drawn over a span of about a year or so. She started out as just a head and some hair…later I added the body and then much later I added her wings and the plant she rests on. I call it Lonely Fairy…probably cause she was missing her wings for so long :P
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1475118&imageID=29255574

I have one more picture I will post next week probably, but I will keep you updated on all I am doing for Dragon Con so keep checking my blogs.

Thanks for Looking!
~Caralyn

My Ears are Burning...not literally

Hello Friends,
A talented artist named Fran Caldwell wrote a great blog about my Myxies. YAY I feel so important :)
It would be awesome if you all took a look at it. Be sure to leave her a comment about it.

http://francaldwell.blogspot.com

Thanks for looking.

P.S. I’m almost done with another picture, I will probably be able to post it this week so be sure to keep checking my blog for updates on my work.

Tootles Peoples!
~Caralyn

Unicorns and Happiness are my Forte

I finished a new picture, I’m really excited about this one because it is different from my other art. I usually draw either females or cute things. Unicorns and Happiness are my forte but with this one I branched off a bit and got in touch with my horror side. I call it “Full Moon” it is of a Werewolf…yeah you see how the name tires in. :P
It really didn’t take me as long as I had originally thought, from start to finish was only about 5 or 6 hours. Not too shabby if I do say so myself. All though I will admit I cheated a little. I have discovered more of the awesomeness that is PhotoShop. With this picture I played around with some of the features for certain things such as his glowing eyes and the bright moon behind him. Glowy eyes Oooooo Creepy.
Have a look see won’t you.
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1475118&imageID=28930996

I still have a few more pictures I will be coloring in PhotoShop before I start on more Myxies YAY Everyone’s Favorite :) And I will try to post each of them as I finish so be sure to keep checking my blog for updates.

Thanks for looking.
~Caralyn

And the Folks Like Me on the Job from Nine to Five

Ugh I have not done a thing this week as far as my art goes. When I work so hard on it for weeks and then just stop I feel so guilty. Things at my 9-5 have just been so hectic and with the holiday this weekend I was just so worn out. I really only have a few hours after work for my art anyway. Sometimes after coming home through the traffic…you all know…all I feel like doing is flopping down on the couch and watching TV. I have so much I want to get done before Dragon Con but at the rate I am going right now I’m not going to get very close. It would be easier if I had a full day to work on my art but what are you gonna do…you gotta pay them bills am I right.
Anyway let me tell you a bit of what I plan to work on tonight…cause I know you are all dying to hear all about it :)
I have been working on coloring a new picture in PhotoShop. It is of an Angel in front of a Stain glass window. It’s almost completely done I just can’t figure out what I want the stain glass to look like. I was thinking I would make a scene behind her on the glass instead of just splashes of color but I’m having a hard time figuring out what to put. Ugh if you can’t tell from all my other blogs…I have a lot of issues with backgrounds. Ay Me, it’s my cross to bear.
But tonight, I’m hoping I can figure it out and finish the picture Finally. If all goes according to plan I will have a brand new picture to show you next week….I said IF.

Okay well I have a lot to get done so Stop distracting me :P
Talk to ya later!
~Caralyn

Celebrate Good Times...Come On!

I’m FINALLY FINISHED! I think this calls for a celebration, everyone join me in the Happy Dance…okay enough of that you look silly :)
This picture took me such a long time…partly because it was taking an extremely large amount of time to color the characters. I was using a slightly different technique then I normally use, or at least one that I haven’t used it in quite some time. But it also took longer than expected because I couldn’t figure out what background I wanted to put behind it. I tried a forest scene, a few trees and greenery. I tried a sunset, lots of orange and yellows behind them. Then I tried putting them both together for a foresty-sunsety (sunsety’s a word) background…but I just couldn’t get it to look right. But then I scrapped that idea and decided to try something else, Like a stone border. Well it turned out to be a stone wall with a window in it when I was done but I was happy with the finished result.
Have a look-see.
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1475118&imageID=28441267


Unfortunately I can’t think of a good name for this piece, so for now it remains untitled.
Keep Checking my blogs for updates on my art.

Thanks for looking.
~Caralyn

Can't Think of a Good Name for This Blog

Man, I have been working my fingers to the bone this month. I’m trying to get a head start on the pile of work I want to get done before Dragon Con. I have so much to do but I think I’m making progress. I’ve finished up a few paintings, some scratch art and I’ve been working on coloring my newer drawings in PhotoShop. I posted a couple a few days ago that I finished last week and I’m going to try to keep posting them as I finish them.
On this picture I was trying to make it look a little more anime-ish then what I usually draw. I’m not sure if it came out that way but I think it looks good anyhow. I don’t have an official title yet but for now I just call it Angel. It took me about 4-5 hours to color in PhotoShop.

http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1475118&imageID=28309871


Thanks for looking and keep checking my blog for updates on my newest work.

Tootles!
~Caralyn

I Been Working on the PhotoShop All the Live Long Days

Yeah so I have been blogging about a few pictures I’m working on…well worked on, I have finished most of them now… but I’m pretty happy with how they turned out, which is very rear :P So I figured I would share some with you. Oh Boy! Okay so the one I finished first was “Behind You” this is one of my few drawings that I did most of the details in photoshop. I usually sketch it on paper and fill in the details while I ink it before scanning. With this one I did a simple sketch, scanned it and it became what you see now with my good ol’ friend PhotoShop, I guess I was feeling adventurous. :)
Anyway it took me approximately 8 hours from start to finish, starting with the sketching and ending with the signing.
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1475118&imageID=28172153 Behind You
On this picture most of my time was spent on the background, I just couldn’t get it the way I wanted. I tried a few different backgrounds before ending on the one it has now. I was going for a sort of coagulated lava looking boarder…I think it turned out good. It looks hot enough for her :)
I unofficially call it Devil until I can come up with a good title but it took me about 5 hours to complete.
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1475118&imageID=28172156 Devil
I have a few more I’d like to show you all that I will try and post a blog about next week so check back later.
Have a great weekend.
~Caralyn

Myxierama

Good news Everyone, I finally got off my lazy tuckus and made some New Myxies. Hard to believe I know :P
Please check out the New Myxies on my Etsy Store

http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_type=handmade&search_query=myxies

Happy Monday to you all.
~Caralyn

No You Can't Keep a Good Dog Down

Well if you read my blog about submitting a picture into Spectrum http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=201883352&blogId=465900536
I’m sorry to report…I didn’t get in It really bummed me out but I won't let that discourage me, I’m going to keep trying until they accept me.
But I have some good news, I got into The SiFi/Fantasy Convention, Dragon Con again this year. I was so nervous to hear back…not as nervous as last year cause I have gone though it all, both being rejected and accepted by the D-Con jury. And this year they accepted me OH BOY!
Oh So much to do, so much to do. I have a pile of projects to finish before the con. But unlike last year…I have time to finish them…I think. Also unlike last year I have many more Large pieces I will be selling. I am currently working on a 24x30 painting. It is a menagerie of Fantasy creatures, like dragons, unicorns, griffins, ya know all the classic ones. I’ve only done one other painting this large before and that one wasn’t as detailed as this one will be. So I’m pretty excited about finishing it. Along with that I have a slew of other projects I’m working on, including MORE MYXIES! Oh yeah, you know you are excited :P

Well I guess I better get started…I’ve got a lot of work to do.
Have a great weekend everyone!

~Caralyn

It’s Just So FABULOUS!

Helllllo Friends!
So I totally got this fun idea for a picture I am working on…Okay really it’s kinda cheesy but I think it will be totally fun because it makes me feel like I’m back in elementary school doing arts and crafts. Those were the good ol’ days. Okay so the picture I have I did on about a 20x24 white board. It is of a dragon, just like the head and upper torso of the dragon. I was bored and sketching one day and I wound up drawing a pretty good looking dragon so I redrew (or attempted to) on the white board, but I had to make him larger to fit on it. He still looked pretty good but now that it wasn’t a 4X7 sketch on notebook paper…the dragon seemed to need more detail…he was detailess I tell you! Anyhoo So I was thinking of ways I could color him to give him more depth and nothing seemed to be doing it for me. So I shoved him to the side for a few days, like an outcast…how tragic. Then while rummaging through some art supplies I got from a friend, I found the coolest craft tool of all time. GLITTER! Yeah Baby, glitter is the bomb. So my splendiferous idea was I would color him, not with markers or paint but with GLITTER! Now I know what you are thinking…It’s gonna look like it belongs in a Las Vegas show but I promise I won’t make it that flashy. Next I plan to make a diorama with a shoebox..just kidding :P

Well back to art class. :)
~Caralyn

The Never-Ending Story...er Drawing.

OH MY GOODNESS! This picture is taking forever…sorry I guess I should expand on what the heck I’m talking about. Okay so ya know a few weeks ago I blogged about a picture I was working on of Aragorn and Arwen?...if you didn’t read it here it is. http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=201883352&blogId=470260667

Anyway I normally do a cartoon/comic book style with my art, dark outlines and bright colors. Well with this one I was thinking I would try a more natural approach something that looked a little more realistic…and let me tell you it is taking FOREVER! Ugh I spent 4 hrs just coloring her hair yesterday. Incredibly tedious. Don’t get me wrong it’s turning out pretty good I think and since I am coloring it on Photoshop makes it easier to get the look I’m trying to. But it is very slow going.
I’m sure it doesn’t help much that I’m a perfectionist when it comes to my art. After I finish a picture I should never be able to look at it again because every time I do I find something else I think I should fix. That’s why I have so many “unfinished” pictures. Of course I’m not to that point on this picture yet…I’m still filling the lines in I won’t start picking at it until it is fully colored and to everyone else that isn’t crazy like me, it is complete…Then the unrelenting flow of self criticism and nitpicking will erupt from me until I have the picture exactly the way I want it…or I give up and storm off defeated. Wow it sounds like it’s almost routine for me doesn’t it…no comment. Okay I just thought I would take some time to let you know how hard I am working…as if there was ever any doubt :P
Oh well I’m off to fuss with the picture some more.

Talk at you later.
~Caralyn

The New Phonebooks are here! I'm Somebody Now!

Hello Everyone!

Polymer Clay Chameleon posts blogs on…what else, Polymer Clay and I just wanted to let you all know that I was featured in one of their blogs.
Check it out!

http://polymerclaychameleon.blogspot.com/2009/04/mystic.html

Well now that I’m done bragging I’ll talk to you all later
~Caralyn

OH MY GOD! DON'T LOOK BEHIND YOU!!!

Hey what's that behind you…

Backgrounds! Ya know, the thing behind the thing on the picture….yeah.
When I was younger, I never drew backgrounds. I was more interested in drawing the characters then about putting something behind them…they were all alone on a cold piece of white paper... So cold and so lonely :(
At the time I didn’t realize how much a background could add to my art. I always assumed it would somehow distract people from seeing the details in the character. To tell you the truth I didn’t really incorporate backgrounds into my work until recently. Despite my manager/sister insisting it would enhance my art and help me to grow as an artist, alas I am a slave to habit. So it was hard to break out of my single character on a blank paper stage. I should listen to her more often I suppose, because she was right.
If you add a background to a picture it sort of creates a story for the characters on the picture. Even simple backgrounds like a border or a splash of color behind your sketch can make your drawing more eye-catching.
It took me a few years to realize that but now I try to add something to each of my drawings. Don’t get me wrong I still like to draw a single sketch on white paper, not every picture needs a background, it’s just a great way to take your work a step further.

Well thanks for letting me act like I know what I’m talking about. :)

Later!
~Caralyn

I’m no Van Gogh…I have both my ears :P

Greetings Friends,

I have a few projects I’m currently working on. The majority of them are paintings. I really haven’t done too much painting before. I prefer to color my work in photoshop…because there is an erase button…nah I’ve just used that for so long I’m the most comfortable with it. But as it is harder to create “large” pieces using photoshop, I don’t have much of an option but to do them on canvas. It’s not that I dislike painting, I just haven’t had as much practice.
Since I use acrylic paint for painting the features on my Myxies, I figured it would work the same for canvas. The only problem I have with acrylics is it dries a little too quickly, making it difficult to spread the paint as far as I need. Of course it works just fine for small detailed paintings because I don’t have to wait as long to add the next color. Lord I’m so impatient! Never the less I went searching for just the right paint for me. I have heard a lot about watercolors, in fact at shows many people ask if that is what I use to color my work…nope, that’s just good ol’ photoshop.
So I went to my favorite place…Michaels and picked up some water colors. But when I tried to use them, to my dismay, they didn’t work how I expected. The paint didn’t seem to soak into the canvas like other paints. It just sort of sat on the top and beaded up…Now that won’t work at all. Perhaps it was the type of canvas I use or maybe it could have been a cheap brand of watercolors but needless to say I was not impressed.
So until I found something that works for me, it looks like I will continue using acrylic. But since I am fairly new to the whole painting thing, I always appreciate any advise anyone can give me on what I should try. Thanks Friends!

Salutations!
~Caralyn

Just Some Random Nonsensical Jibber Jabber

Hiddy-ho friends,

As you all know (if you read my last blog) I went to Binders the other day. Well I got some scratch board while I was there. Scratch board if you don’t already know is this nifty white board that has a black cover that you scratch off to make a picture instead of drawing on it. I enjoy doing it, it’s a lot easier than I thought it would be when I first heard of it. Anyhoo, I picked up my usual 8x10 and 10x12 that I started using and have grown oh so fond of, but I also picked up a few 4x7s (because they were on sale…WHOOT). I wasn’t really sure what I was going to do with them but I figured if anything I could use them as practice, since there is no erasing when it comes to scratch board. I did a couple of doodles and then got to scratching. I chipped away at the black as sounds of the incredible Hulk echoed from the TV…Hulk is not my music of choice when arting it up, that’s just what was on at the time. By the time the movie was over I had finished with one of the 4x7s. I don’t normally work on small canvases or what not but I may have to start doing that more often. It was great I feel like I have found a new relaxation tool…No not the Hulk!
Okay well that was all I wanted to say. Don’t know why I felt the need to tell you this, it wasn’t grandiose or anything. Just bored I guess. Well thanks for reading it anyway.

Now back to work the lot of you :P
~Caralyn

Patience is a Virtue

Hiya!

So I went to Binders Saturday, Binders is this really great art store I like to go to. It’s sort of like Michaels only it has more “art” supplies and less crafts. That’s where I venture when I need to get a canvas or Scratch board.
While I was there I met a talented artist who was displaying some of his work there. He was also in the process of painting a large canvas. He was painting it for his son as a wedding present. The artist was copying a photo of the couple taken at their wedding. The bride was dressed in a long red sari, The vibrant color caught my eye as soon as I walked in the door. All along the edges was a beautiful white lace, the artist was working on that when I approached him. As I came closer I realized he did not have a brush in his hand but an x-acto knife. He must’ve seen the confusion on my face cause he told me what he was up to before I could even ask. He explained that he was afraid he would lose some of the detail if he just painted the lace with a brush, so instead he was chipping away the layers of oil paint to expose the canvas underneath. A tedious task no doubt but from how the painting was turning out well worth it. He then went on to say he achieved to bright red, not from mixing paint but from layering it…14 layers to be exact. He said it had already taken him over 140 hrs to get where it was and he still had a little ways to go before it was finished. Can you imagine? I don’t even have enough patience to paint my nails.
Each of his pieces had so much detail, you could tell he puts alot of time into his work. People always say, patience is a virtue well I say patience is an artist. But seeing his work inspired me, I think I may even start on a painting this week.

Later
~Caralyn

Don't mind me while I go off on a little tare

I was looking at the hits on my store the other day and not to brag or anything but I’m getting quite a lot. For a small store that has only been around for 2 years I was feeling very good about the amount of people checking out my store. But despite all the traffic I am getting my sells aren’t doing too well. And when you measure the hits against the sales it makes you wonder why the merchandise isn’t moving faster. I was thinking maybe I was charging too much for my work, but when you put money and a great deal of time into something you can’t just give it away. I set my prices based on my effort, and my effort certainly hasn’t changed. Then it occurred to me that it wasn’t my work or the pricing it was more that people just aren’t spending money right now. Everyone is having hard times and when that happens, “unessential” items such as art, are some of the first things people cut out. Not that I’m blaming them, I understand full well that if money is tight, you have to cut the little pleasures out occasionally. But that can really hurt an artist that is just starting out. And I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s sales have been affected. I’ll be fine, I have a nine to five that pays my bills, but I feel sorry for the artists out there that are trying to live off their art. But unfortunately there isn’t much you can do about it. So I am going to continue to put my art out there and hopefully it won’t be too long before the economy picks up and people begin their spending again.
Good luck to all my fellow artists out there that are trying to share their work with people.

Thanks for listening,
~Caralyn

All Work and No Play Makes Caralyn a Dull Girl

Hiya!
Oh Boy, I’m so excited about a new picture I started sketching at work when I was supposed to be taking calls…don’t tell my boss. It started out as just a doodle but as I was drawing, the idea came to me. It’s nowhere near ready for scanning so I’m not going to ruin the surprise by telling you what it is…Okay no need to twist my arm I’ll tell you :)
It’s my rendition of Arwen and Aragorn from “Lord of the Rings”. I drew an Elf woman in a silk looking dress and a rugged man with a cloak. He is sort of embracing her. At first I was just drawing a girl but she turned into an elf. My sketches usually end up taking on a fantasy/si-fi feel because…well because, who doesn’t love si-fi and fantasy! Then I added the man, I went through a few different drafts with him. I thought about making him a vampire but I’ve already done that with my Vampire & Nymph drawing I did a couple years back. I try not to duplicate too much. After a few moments of pondering is when I got the idea. I really think it’s coming along nicely. I still have a few more details to add before I can ink it and my work always seems to turn into something else, so when I’m finished it probably will be completely different but for now it is a human/elf couple.
Well I’m going to add it to the pile of things I’m working on…that never seems to get smaller… cause I keep adding to it.

Back to work…or not,
~Caralyn

Words are coming out my mouth but I'm not saying anything

So I’m trying to get a few more things done this year, I have been working on Myxies a lot lately and need to spend a bit more time on my other art. I have had a few sketches that I have been planning to finish for months now. They are just a few ideas I had while I was supposed to be working. I jotted them down but then got caught up in other things (being lazy) and just never went back to them. So that is what I plan to work on this week. I’m going to dust off my drawing board for an evening of just me, my pen and probably some Alanis Morissette blasting in the background. Jagged Little Pill Baby!
I have one picture I’m working on that I am pretty excited about. It is of an elf girl and her pet baby dragon. She has a confused look on her face and behind her is a person with a long black robe. It is supposed to be sort of a death like creature. It still has a long way to go since I am only at the sketching stage. After that comes filling in the details, inking the picture, scanning it onto Photoshop and lastly adding color. The whole process will take a few days…mostly because I can’t work on it for too long cause my fingers get tired. :/
Well time to get to work, these pictures aren’t going to draw themselves…too bad, that would save me a lot of time.
I’ll keep you all posted on my art, because I’m sure you are all just DYING to know :)

Talk at you all later!
~Caralyn

Myxie bo-byxie banana-fanana ro-ryxie fe-fi-fo fyxie MYXIE!

Ello Friends.

It’s everyone’s favorite part of the day…the time when you read my blog and find out there are NEW MYXIES ON ETSY!!! I know, it’s just too wonderful for words. :D
But it’s true, I have finished two more Myxies, Indigo and Scarlet. The newbies have been posted on my Etsy store. Check them out!

Cheerio!
~Caralyn

Halo 4: Myxie Invasion

Good Day Folks!

So last week I was watching my boyfriend kill stuff with a gun bigger than the screen...I should specify this was on the x-box, sos not to alarm anyone. :) As I watched the pixilated aliens run for their lives I thought...I should make some Myxies. I assure you it was the colors that made me think of Myxies and not the violence.
Anyhoo to get to my point of this story...I have brand NEW MYXIES up on Etsy! Oh Boy!
So Please check them out.

Tootles,
~Caralyn

This Procrastinator hates to wait.

Hello Art Friends.

So I set myself a few goals for this year. Organize my bills, Clear out my storage room, and submit my art to Spectrum…well at least I got one of those done. No, I didn’t tackle the storage room, I’m scared to go in there!
I submitted a picture to Spectrum. Spectrum is an annual art book that show cases contemporary artists. http://www.spectrumfantasticart.com/books.php?id=567
I try to get one every year. I love being able to see so many different artists in one place…also it’s a picture book, no reading involved…gotta love that :)
This is the picture I submitted, it is one of my newest drawings. It was done with pencil and ink and then scanned and colored in Photoshop. I call it Yo-yo Tricks.
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=201883352&albumID=1475118&imageID=25116394

The deadline is today, I mailed my picture in last week…normally I’m a major procrastinator but this is important to me so I got on it early, well earlyish. I’m so excited to see if I got in, unfortunately I won’t know for a few months. So I will have to play the waiting game, CURSE YOU waiting game! But I will make sure to let you all know as soon as I do. Wish me luck.

Have a Great Day!
~Caralyn

My Inspiration

I never really knew how much I would enjoy sculpting until about two years ago when I created the Myxies. I have always appreciated sculptors and their work but never considered myself one. Before I got started sculpting I often surfed the web for different artists. I gathered ideas on materials and techniques from them and along with watching “How to” videos on youtube I was encouraged to create my own.

These are a few amazing artists that inspired my sculptures.

http://www.goddess-dreams.com/sold.html Aidamaris Roman’s sculptures are so realistic, from the glass eyes to the fingernails, she is a very gifted artist.

http://pixiwillow.com/faerie_gallery.htm Michelle Bradshaw is incredible, so much detail in such little figures.

http://www.eirewolfcreations.com/ Erin Metcalf, her art is adorable, colorful and her creations are some of the most imaginative I have ever seen.

http://www.gossamerglen.com/gossamer%20glen/faeriecollection.htm Marchella has inspired my Myxies the most, her fairy tale, cartoonish creations are similar to what I was striving for with my own.

http://www.museumofhoaxes.com/hoax/weblog/permalink/huge_sculptures/ Ron Mueck, his HUGE sculptures are incredibly detailed and beautiful.

http://data.fineartstudioonline.com/dataviewer.asp?keyvalue=8165&page=Works Willy Whitten not only is a friend of mine but helped create some of films most memorable creations, like in The Thing and Aliens.

I hope these links can help any future sculptors find their inspiration the way they helped me.

~Caralyn