art, Blog, Funny, inspiration, Monster Monday, Monsters, play, Poetry, Self-Awareness, Writing

The Daboo: Meeting Your Inner Trickster

After a playful gallivant down Creative Lane last weekend, tickled by the inspiration of Father’s Day, I wanted to share this silly poem and illustration I created for my Dad. Well, this also got me thinking about how we are (and in this case, how our creativity is) shaped by those who brought us up and by those who have been or continue to be around us. I, for example, can easily trace back certain traits I share with family members who modelled ingenuity, artistic talent, and creativity in many different forms. I recall teachers and mentors who encouraged my writing and artwork, and how much of a difference it made to have their support. I have fond memories creating unique projects with imaginative and dedicated peers in Film School. How many happy moments of play and inventive stories were created with friends, I wonder, throughout my lifetime? And this week, I am reminded of where a big part of my inner Trickster came from— my dearest Daboo. The Trickster: the one who plays lovingly and for the sake of joy; who teases and jokes to break the daily monotony; who is able to scramble reality in a way that creates hilarity; who can juggle words and ideas like an otter with smooth river stones. What fun it is to release that inner creature, and to have it embraced and appreciated! And what a big and beloved part of me that creative thing has become…

I feel endlessly thankful for all of these wonderful gifts that have shaped who I am and what and how I create today. And I share these ponderings for three reasons. One, to encourage you to take notice of what special talents and gifts you have that you may take for granted. Two, as a motivator to reflect back and appreciate— perhaps even thank— a few of your most influential influencers. And three, to urge you to really put awareness into how you encourage and influence others around you, because your words and actions can and do shape those very individuals. So there you have it, straight from the beast, so please feast on these ideas, if you like, and have yourself a wonderful and creative week! But before you go, come meet the Daboo…!

“The Daboo” By Kristy Fae

Well, have you met our dearest Daboo?
If not, I say, you really ought to…
With eyes of deep and emerald green hue,
And song so strong it’ll make you brand-new!

Beware his cunning tricks— he’ll get you
With musings of a red-hot teaspoon,
Or willies wetter than a slug stew,
And hugs held tighter than a corkscrew!

And when he starts the grand barbecue 
It’s sure to be a hullabaloo!
There’s ne’er been one who can compare to,
Our one true and most dearest Daboo! 

“The Daboo” by Kristy Fae

Thanks for reading and remember to always Follow Your Creativity! Subscribe for more nonsensical fun and creative inspiration. Also find me @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable monsters and other products!

Pssst- what I write in this blog is a reflection of my own ideas and experiences and/or interpretations of any referenced material. The content of this blog is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only. I am not an expert or therapist and cannot be held liable for any content provided or how it is used. Please enjoy at your own discretion. I reserve the right to change the content or management of this blog at any time. That said, I hope you enjoy it!  © 2022 Kristina Durst aka Kristy Anne Fae All Rights Reserved.

art, Blog, inspiration, Monster Monday, Monsters, oracle deck, play, Writing

The Trout Lily Flowerling: Come Out to Play!

With her radiant display of curled yellow petals, it’s no wonder that this mischievous little beauty is a sign of good things to come! Mimicking the Sun himself, the Trout Lily Flowerling reminds us to peek out of the safety of the shadows we hide in and to— at every opportunity— fly our colours high! A symbol of joy and playfulness, she will always surprise you with her cunning trickery and lyrical speech. This nifty little nymph is on the guest-list for my upcoming Self-Love Oracle Deck, so be sure to Subscribe for updates if you want to support her and other creative and whimsical friends!

The Trout Lily Flowerling by Kristy Fae

Dedicated to my Mom, this illustration was made for her after she shared a picture of a Dog-toothed violet a.k.a. Trout Lily and reminisced about how it was the first flower out and about to signify Spring where she grew up! Well, I’m a bit late on Spring so I thought li’l Trouty would be happy enough to make her appearance here in time for Summer… So Happy Summer Solstice everyone! May it be a joyous and playful season full of surprises. What is a symbol you associate with your favourite season? Can you draw or write about it creatively as a reminder of what that season means to you?

Thanks for reading! Also continue to Follow Your Creativity @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable monsters and other products!

Pssst- what I write in this blog is a reflection of my own ideas and experiences and/or interpretations of any referenced material. The content of this blog is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only. I am not an expert or therapist and cannot be held liable for any content provided or how it is used. Please enjoy at your own discretion. I reserve the right to change the content or management of this blog at any time. That said, I hope you enjoy it!  © 2022 Kristina Durst aka Kristy Anne Fae All Rights Reserved.

art, Blog, Funny, inspiration, Monster Monday, Monsters, Poetry, Self-Love, Writing

The Ralwus: Waking Your Inner Beast!

The Ralwus by Kristy Fae

Far-wide are known the Walrus.
But have you heard of Ralwus?
With tusks that arch along their spine,
And scales that shimmer as they shine, 
The Ralwus are most friendly chaps,
Who take the most substantial naps…
But do not wake a sleeping Ral—
For you might hear it’s mighty call,
Then all will know the Ralwus,
Such as they know the Walrus!

“Wake the Ralwus” by Kristy Fae

So you got that right? Do not wake this incredible sleeping beast— or wait, maybe you should? After all, wouldn’t the world benefit from knowing about such a unique, beautiful, and LOUDLY talented creature? This goes for all of us, not just the Ralwus. Don’t hide your voice, your presence, your gifts from the world. Rather shout them out to the ever-changing skies and across the wild and tumultuous seas… because you are unique, beautiful and talented. You make a difference just by being you, so don’t hide YOU in a silent slumber. Take up space. Make noise. Be seen.

Is there a passion, a talent, or another form of self-expression that you’ve been keeping to yourself? Can you let it OUT this week!? Even just a little? If so, comment below! Let us find that majestic beast and sing out our mighty Ralwus calls together…

IT’S TIME TO WAKE THE RALWUS!

Thanks for reading! Continue to Follow Your Creativity @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable monsters and other products!

Pssst- what I write in this blog is a reflection of my own ideas and experiences and/or interpretations of any referenced material. The content of this blog is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only. I am not an expert or therapist and cannot be held liable for any content provided or how it is used. Please enjoy at your own discretion. I reserve the right to change the content or management of this blog at any time. That said, I hope you enjoy it!  © 2022 Kristina Durst aka Kristy Anne Fae All Rights Reserved.

Blog, inspiration, Monster Monday, Monsters, play, Self-Love, Writing

The Dragon and the Fly: Sitting on the Water

Hi monster fans! Just dropping in with a little reminder and a touch of inspiration this Monster Monster. For those of you who have been trying to do too much, yet feeling more worn out and “less than” the more you do…this post may be for you! 

If you’re anything like me, you have plenty of creative ideas as well as a never-ending list of to-do’s on multiple lists. If so, let’s just take a pause. Breathe. Seriously, just take a few deep ones as though you’re gathering up your fiery breath to roar it out at a gigantic marshmallow OR it could be a gentle subtle breath, like the breath of a fly, peaceful and easy. Do it in whatever way feels good to you right now and most importantly: enjoy it, savour it, like a delectable treat. Because it is one.

As far back as I can remember, I’ve adored dragonflies. With their enlarged, inquisitive, reflective eyes, thin bodies, and delicate wings, they truly strike me as something from out of this world. When I was young, I would take the dinghy out into the bay on the lake and rescue the dragonflies that had swooped too low for a fresh fly and gotten their winged waterlogged. I would retrieve them from the top of the lake’s surface, set them on the side of the dinghy, and watch as they would flutter their wings in the sunlight until they were dry enough to transport their bodies back into flight once more. Me, sitting in blow-up raft in the middle of the lake surrounded by bugs: and I couldn’t have been happier.

What magic comes to us when we are willing to pay attention to the small things around us? To sit still and hear our heart’s longing? To act on those gentle, shimmering impulses… like a dragonfly’s wing…?

So that’s where I’ve been and why I haven’t been keeping up with this blog lately. I haven’t been on the lake with the dragonflies, but out in the sun, at my drawing desk and craft table, with the little inspirations that come, trying to enjoy each minute of it all. And I don’t pretend that it’s easy to do less, slow down, and pay attention… but I guarantee, it is worth the effort to try.

“The Dragon and the Fly” by Kristy Biscuit

Thanks for reading! Also find me @artofnonsense on Facebook and Instagram or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for more monsterly inspiration!

Pssst- what I write in this blog is a reflection of my own ideas and experiences and/or interpretations of any referenced material. The content of this blog is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only. I am not an expert or therapist and cannot be held liable for any content provided or how it is used. Please enjoy at your own discretion. I reserve the right to change the content or management of this blog at any time. That said, I hope you enjoy it!  © 2021 Kristina Durst aka Kristy Biscuit All Rights Reserved.

art, Blog, Funny, Monster Monday, Monsters, play

The Sun-Monster: Soak Up the Fun!

If you’re like me, and you live somewhere where the sun has been graciously showing its face more often these days, then you’ll understand this week’s illustration…Yes, I am more than ecstatic to be soaking up the warmth and light and am taking every opportunity to do so! I hope you’re all finding ways to play in, relax beneath, and otherwise enjoy, thoroughly, the sunshine. Haven’t we earned it!? Just remember to be a little safer than the overzealous critter below and use sun screen or cover up, hydrate, and don’t overdo it (as hard as that might be after waiting for what feels like SO long!).

The Sun-Monster by Kristy Biscuit

Have fun and play safe everyone!

Thanks for stopping by and be sure to subscribe for more monsterly fun! Also find me @artofnonsense on Facebook and Instagram or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable critters…

Pssst- what I write in this blog is a reflection of my own ideas and experiences and/or interpretations of any referenced material. The content of this blog is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only. I am not an expert or therapist and cannot be held liable for any content provided or how it is used. Please enjoy at your own discretion. I reserve the right to change the content or management of this blog at any time. That said, I hope you enjoy it!  © 2021 Kristina Durst aka Kristy Biscuit All Rights Reserved.

art, Blog, Funny, Monster Monday, Monsters

The Eggster Bunny: Happy Whatever!

The monsters around here have been a little confused by this whole Easter thing…but once you see their take on this Holiday below, I think you’ll understand why!

“The Eggster Bunny” by Kristy Biscuit

Whatever you’re doing this long weekend, we’re wishing you a whole lot of Nonsense! So Happy Whatever, as long as you’re finding creative ways of having fun this Spring. Now let’s see YOUR spin on a favourite Holiday character. Share the fun using #artofnonsense 

Thanks for reading and be sure to subcribe to this now biweekly blog for more monsterly inspiration! Also find me @artofnonsense on Facebook and Instagram or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop

Pssst- what I write in this blog is a reflection of my own ideas and experiences and/or interpretations of any referenced material. The content of this blog is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only. I am not an expert or therapist and cannot be held liable for any content provided or how it is used. Please enjoy at your own discretion. I reserve the right to change the content or management of this blog at any time. That said, I hope you enjoy it!  © 2021 Kristina Durst aka Kristy Biscuit All Rights Reserved.

art, Blog, Funny, inspiration, Monster Monday, Monsters, play, Poetry

The Zuzzy Zzama: Creatures that Roll-Off-The-Tongue!

Can you get this tongue twister to roll off your tongue— rhymes and embellished spellings and all? I’m having fun over here inventing new critters and their tails and tales. Have you got any silly willy furry friends to share with me? The key to success here is, you got it, have FUN and get SILLY!

“The Zuzzy Zzama” by Kristy Biscuit

This whimsical children’s illustration is the result of the second lesson of Lisa Bardot’s “How to Draw Fur in Procreate” tutorial that I’m following on Skillshare. Find more of Lisa’s tutorials and Procreate brushes at www.bardotbrush.com

Experimenting with different ways of how to make FURRY, FUZZY, HAIRY creatures come off the page as though you could reach out and pet them is especially exciting for me. Not only do I love furry creatures (and indubitably petting them) but I’m also thrilled about incorporating my learnings into my upcoming children’s book, “My Very Hairy Monster Friends”, featuring nonsense poems similar to the one above! Make sure to follow the blog for updates on this and other uberly creative projects…and last but not least, have a ssuper dduper dday!

Happy creating! For more creative fun and inspiration, find me @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and the Art of Nonsense Shop

Pssst- what I write in this blog is a reflection of my own ideas and experiences and/or interpretations of any referenced material. The content of this blog is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only. I am not an expert or therapist and cannot be held liable for any content provided or how it is used. Please enjoy at your own discretion. I reserve the right to change the content or management of this blog at any time. That said, I hope you enjoy it!  © 2021 Kristina Durst aka Kristy Biscuit All Rights Reserved.

art, Blog, inspiration, Monster Monday, Monsters

The Real-Life Monster: Furry Sloth

Hey all, I hope you had a relaxing and joyful weekend. Today, I wanted to share one of my very favourite REAL-LIFE monsters: the sloth! This very hairy creature, who has giant claws for fingers, and moves so slowly he grows moss on his back, is something right out of a nonsensical storybook in my opinion. Cute as anything and strange as can be, I can’t help but obsessively love sloths! What is your favourite “strange” and furry creature?

Kristy Biscuit’s Furry Sloth

I had a lot of fun trying out a new style by following a tutorial on Skill Share by Lisa Bardot called “How to Draw Fur in Procreate.” She also shows you how to make fluff and feathers! I can’t wait to apply these techniques to some of my make-believe monsters! I highly recommend this and other tutorials, free brushes and more by Lisa at http://www.bardotbrush.com

Thanks for reading! Also find me @artofnonsense on Facebook and Instagram or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for more creative inspiration!

Pssst- what I write in this blog is a reflection of my own ideas and experiences and/or interpretations of any referenced material. The content of this blog is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only. I am not an expert or therapist and cannot be held liable for any content provided or how it is used. Please enjoy at your own discretion. I reserve the right to change the content or management of this blog at any time. That said, I hope you enjoy it!  © 2021 Kristina Durst All Rights Reserved.

Blog, Funny, inspiration, Monster Monday, Monsters, Poetry, Self-Awareness, Self-Help, Self-Improvement, Self-Love

The Grim Bitter: Better Your Bitter

The Grim Bitter sneaked into my home last week,
and asked me, please, to play. 
The Grim, you should know, is the gnarliest soul,
and not in a cool ol’ way.
I know not whether the Grim is more bitter than grim,
or more grim than the bitterest thing,
But when I denied his request, what did manifest,
was nothing that I was expecting!
He sat down on his rump, with a roar and a thump,
atop all of my chores and to-dos,
His face in a frown, he crossed his arms proud,
and when I asked him to leave— he refused!
“I’ve got things to do, oh why won’t you move!?”
but my cries only pleased him much more,
“Fine then, I’LL go—” and I tried, but oh no,
where he sat, he was blocking the door!
So I huffed and I puffed and I shoved and I snuffed
until I felt completely enraged,
Then I chased him about with a broom and a shout,
until my whole house— rearranged!
On this went for a week, without food, drink or sleep,
to the point that I gave in and sat,  
And together we groaned, and we pouted and moaned,
’til at last we had no more to add.
Then when we were done, he said, “Thanks for the fun!”
and went off on his unpleasant way…
So if the Grim Bitter calls, it may be wise not to stall—
but instead to appease him and play!

The Grim Bitter

Sometimes you just have to acknowledge your frustrations, sit with those uncomfortable feelings, and let out your upset so you can move on and get back to living your life! Whether it’s throwing paint at a canvas, letting yourself cry, taking a day off for yourself, talking to a trusted loved one or a professional— or anything else than helps— well, as the old saying goes: better OUT than IN! What’s your favourite way of blowing off steam when you’re feeling grim or bitter? Let me know in the comments below!

Thanks for reading! Also find me @artofnonsense on Facebook and Instagram or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for more monsterly inspiration

Pssst- what I write in this blog is a reflection of my own ideas and experiences and/or interpretations of any referenced material. The content of this blog is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only. I am not an expert or therapist and cannot be held liable for any content provided or how it is used. Please enjoy at your own discretion. I reserve the right to change the content or management of this blog at any time. That said, I hope you enjoy it!  © 2021 Kristina Durst All Rights Reserved.

art, Blog, inspiration, Monster Monday, Monsters, Poetry, Self-Improvement, Self-Love

The Down-Upper: Keep Your Head Up!

If you’re having a bad day, I’m here to say,
That you aren’t alone, and it’s ok!
When you need a little pick-me-up,
Remember the Down-Upper and his down-going butt,
Who, no matter how much his bottom might weigh,
Holds his head high, always scouting the way!
Because if you go down and forget to look up,
You might miss out on the most beautiful stuff!

The Down-Upper by Kristina Durst

Thanks for reading! Also find me @artofnonsense on Facebook and Instagram or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for more monsterly inspiration and fun!

Pssst- what I write in this blog is a reflection of my own ideas and experiences and/or interpretations of any referenced material. The content of this blog is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only. I am not an expert or therapist and cannot be held liable for any content provided or how it is used. Please enjoy at your own discretion. I reserve the right to change the content or management of this blog at any time. That said, I hope you enjoy it!  © 2021 Kristina Durst All Rights Reserved.