Sometimes there’s rhyme but no reason…here’s a bit of fun for you this Monster Monday in honour of Art of Nonsense’s favourite upcoming celebration— Halloween!
“The Choc-o-lot Sneak” By Kristy Fae
The Choc-o-lot Sneak, Such a sneaker of treats, Is a marvellous master— A sneak who sneaks sweets!
He sniffs out the goods, A most terrible feat, And when candy’s around, Well, he won’t miss a beat!
He snatches the loot With his three massive beaks, Then he stashes the stuff In his gigantic cheeks!
Yes, caramel and fudge Are the eats that he seeks And it’s Halloween Night That his food-snatching peaks!
So hide all your bars, All your lollies and gummies— But the only safe spot, Is inside your tummies!
“The Choc-o-lot Sneak” by Kristy Fae
We hope you’re having fun getting your costumes and candies and jack-o-lanterns ready this October. Just beware that mighty Sneak, as we heard him sniffing around here in the chocolate cupboard already 😉 If you’re celebrating Hallow’s Eve this year, tell us how in the comments below…
Have a joyful, creative and safe Halloween season everyone!
Happy October everyone! The tree are shedding, the air is cooling and Halloween is fast approaching. Creative energies are running high (at least they are here in the Monster Studio!) and what better way to honour a creative October than by participating in Inktober 2023! For anyone who doesn’t know, Inktober is a time for artists to create artwork daily based on a list of drawing prompts. This year, a fellow artist and loved-one had an excellent idea: to curate prompt lists for one another.
How fun!
We both have different goals for Inktober this year, and our lists reflect that for one another. She brilliantly chose the word “discovery” for my day 1 prompt, as my intention is to challenge my illustration skills with new subjects and action poses. Gasp— I have to try NOT to draw monsters for a whole month!? Well, truth be told, some monsters will still be sneaking into my artwork this month, whether inspired by the prompts or otherwise 😉 Yet starting off my illustration yesterday, I automatically sketched a monster and had to catch myself, and redo it… as a HOOMAN! But I think turned out pretty well:
In conclusion, if you’re with me, let’s dub the month of October “Discovery Month” and try “drawing outside of the lines”…or the box…or the circle…Perhaps this means trying a new art medium, drawing different subjects, or even ones you’re not comfortable with. Maybe it means reconnecting to your “Little Me” to see what they want to explore! A good place to start is to revisit what you loved doing, or always wanted to do, as a kid…
Expanding the horizons of what we create, as always, can bring new playfulness, creativity and discovery! If you want to join in the fun, hashtag your work with #inktober2023 and #artofnonsense on your preferred social media platforms! You can find the official Inktober 2023 prompt list here. We’ll be sharing @artofnonsense on Facebook and Instagramso be sure to follow us there for more Inktober fun!
Happy creating and discovering, Monster Friends!
Play. Create. Discover… also find me @artofnonsense on YouTube or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable monsters and other products!
Well, this coming week is officially calling in the start of Autumn!
Hurray, Huzzah, Hoorah!
Yes, I’m a big fan of Fall. I’m not sure if it’s the falling leaves, the oh-so-fresh hoodie-worthy weather, the ingrained feeling of “back to school” season, or the excitement of Halloween creeping in (okay, it’s all of the above)… but Fall always has me feeling crafty, creative, and motivated to get organized and productive!
The closets have been cleaned out, the desks have been rearranged, the year’s goals have been fine-tuned and, of course, the monsters have been awakened!
In honour of our favourite monsterly season, we’ve finally got our latest Beanbag Buds and Monster Hand-Puppets up for adoption at the Art of Nonsense Shop! Our boisterous little Beanbag critters are the perfect pals to clip onto your knapsack, carry in your pockets, or toss around with your friends. They’re fun fidget toys for all of us sensory-oriented creatures, and of course, they’re cute as buttons! Handmade in Victoria British Columbia, we’re currently shipping within Canada. Drop us an email if you have any questions or custom ideas: kristy@artofnonsense.com
So while the monsters are having fun “Fall-ing” into line… what are your season’s goals? Is there a project you’ve been meaning to get started on? A junk drawer that needs excavating? Or perhaps a routine that needs polishing to bring some freshness into your step? Whatever it is, we hope you’re able to start dropping into your creative energy this week. Perhaps now is the time to take that first small step towards a goal that you’d maybe hung up during the hot and sunny months?
Wishing you a wickedly awesome Autumnal Equinox from all of us monsters here at Art of Nonsense!
Play. Create. Discover… don’t forget to subscribe to keep up with our biweekly blogs and follow us @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. And of course, visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable monsters!
Those of you who have been following the Monster Musings Blog for some time already know that Art of Nonsense is all about creativity and play! On the surface it looks like monsters, artwork and toys, which it is— and each of these things is inherently valuable and wonderful on its own. And yet underneath, in the cavernous intentions of Kristy and the Monsters, there resides so much more…
Art of Nonsense is about discovering the deeper authentic parts of ourselves, and then expressing and celebrating them to the fullest. It’s about not being afraid to be our wild, silly, quirky selves. It’s about following our dreams, living our joy, and finding greater fulfillment in our lives— regardless of our age! I really believe that when we listen in and free our inner child, we tap into the simple pleasures— the “Nonsense”— that our souls so crave. This is where we find deeper connection, greater authenticity, and heartfelt joy! So let’s make living and learning the most fun we possibly can with the time we are given.
One of my greatest joys and biggest sources of play is Nature. With Summer blessing us here in British Columbia, I’ve been thoroughly enjoying laying in the sun, swimming in the ocean, admiring the wildlife and photographing the colourful blooms. I’ve been hugging trees, talking to squirrels and letting my hands run along the textures of shrubs and trees as I pass them. I’ve also been walking barefoot in the grass, through the rocky hills and across the pebbled beaches.
Kristy Fae Hugging her Friend, the Giant
One evening, I started running through a dewy lawn and was instantly transported back to childhood. What freedom and joy lay there— in a lawn— so easy to access, yet so often dismissed. We too often rush by the things we love as we race from one thing to the next, striving to “succeed” and acquire what we think will finally deliver us our happiness. Our modern society has been taking us away from our connection with Earth, and thus harming our connection to ourselves and to others. Reconnecting with Earth, whether through appreciating and nurturing Nature or by connecting bare feet or hands to Her to ground ourselves, reminds us who we are. We are Nature. And Nature is beautiful because She is unique, imperfect and wildly Herself! There is no playing small, holding back parts of Herself, or pretending to be something She is not. She is unapologetically Herself.
And that’s what I wish for all of us, dear ones.
Barefoot & Connected
This week, I invite you to try the gift of Earthing. This practice involves connecting your body, especially bare feet or hands, to the Earth, to ground yourself. Sit with your feet in the grass, or walk across the beach or lawn. If you’re committed, try doing it daily. You can google or YouTube “Earthing” to find out about the science and beliefs that back this practice— but I’m curious to see what you notice for yourself. Really be present with the sensations you feel physically, emotionally and maybe even spiritually. Do you feel a tug to look more closely at the insects playing all around you? Is there a yearning to skip, or sing or jump in the water? Can you suddenly spot faces in the clouds or wrinkled tree bark? Whatever the pull is for you, see what magic comes when you let your inner child out to play!
Have you ever taken the time to count the ways in which we can be creative? It’s a trick question, because there are infinite ways! If we think about all the possible art forms, ways of expressing, original ideas, inventions, stories, processes, etc, it really is a marvel.
As creatives, we may have a preference for certain mediums or processes that we use to create. This is of course is helpful and efficient, especially if we are creating in school or in a career where work needs to be accomplished on timelines. But sometimes our creative processes can get stagnant or stuck in a rut. Perhaps we find ourselves lacking inspiration or passion if we’ve been doing too much of the “same thing”. In these instances, it’s especially important to remember those INFINITE possibilities for creativity— and maybe break outside of our comfort zones, shake things up, and try something new!
As a writer, illustrator and monster maker, I get hyper-focused on making my professional products. And yet, I’m also someone who loves diving into a new craft or art form just to experience it, make some cool stuff, and see what happens. I may come back to these mediums over time or just try them once and move on. Either way, I’ve learned that that’s perfectly ok!
In some ways I have felt “less than” for a long time for being a “Jane of all trades, a master of none.” I do understand the intention behind this message— that spreading ourselves too thin across many skills can be at the detriment of our expertise. I developed a story in my head that told me this was the case for me. Yet I’m realizing it isn’t. What I’ve become is my own kind of master; one that can basically create anything from anything! That’s a mega super expert master skill in itself, isn’t it?!
I also believe in, and have experienced for myself, the benefit that comes from fresh energy, looking at things from different perspectives, and acquiring transferable skills. We take all that back to our master craft and may show up to it stronger than ever. And lastly, if it’s FUN, it’s WORTHWHILE! Fun goes a long way for our creativity, as it births joy, passion, inspiration, motivation, and overall wellbeing… And if it’s good for you, it’s good for your craft, I say.
Now I’m not necessarily saying to drop all your work and priorities and go hog-wild with a billion different “try ‘ems” (unless you are inspired to and in a position to do so!). What I am saying is that taking a bit of time here and there to play, experiment, mess around, try something new or do something in a different way, might just bring about surprising results.
I’ve been very much enjoying my “try ‘em” these past few weeks— and furthermore I enjoyed connecting with family and friends over these crafts, making them even more special and beneficial! Felting is what I’ve been playing with, which proves to be extremely meditative, calming and enjoyable for me. It’s a neat medium, which uses felting wool and barbed needles to “mash” and “tangle” (these are not the official terms!) the fibres into one another in order to form shapes…objects…and of course, for me, creatures.
I love that you can just start a project without much thought, and keep adding to it as you “mould” it similarly to clay. It’s also super quick to take out on the fly, without any preparation other than having the required materials and tools! Felting reminds me that creating doesn’t always have to be pre-planned or created for any specific purpose. It can be for the enjoyment of it, or to spread joy when you gift it (or sit it on your shelf!). It’s also inspired me to work more quickly and freely and to experiment with more texture and colour in my illustration work. This is a great case in point to what I’m trying to get across here today!
So dear monster lovers, I’m sure you want to see my latest felt creation, which was modelled after the Bowtruckle named Pickett from Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, so here he is:
Reproduction of Pickett from Fantastic Beasts, by Kristy Fae
Now if I were to say, “Go do a creative thing that’s new or that you haven’t done in a while” — do you know what it would be? Perhaps it’s using oil pastels or finger-paints. Maybe it’s ballet dancing, sewing some unique clothes, inventing a new product, or writing a story? Maybe it’s an activity you loved as a child but have left in the dust for many years. This week, try briefly stepping away from whatever way you normally get creative. Give space for some PLAY! If you need some direction, pick one of your favourite movie creatures to make and consider the different ways you could bring it to life! Then of course, feel free to share your creation or experience with us in the comments below.
Happy Monster Monday everyone, I hope you all had a safe and joyful weekend whether you were celebrating a holiday, loving the onset of Spring, or otherwise living life!
First off, I want to say thanks to all the monster-supporters who came out to the Art Market last weekend. Super Max the Monster Puppet and I had a great time and we happily re-homed some fun-hungry monsters. If you had your eye on a Beanbag Bud (see last week’s blog if you missed it), we’ve still got some of these sensory friendly toys available for adoption— just send Kristy a message. They aren’t yet listed on the online Shop, but will be soon, along with new puppets, art prints and more!
Beanbag Buds made by Kristy Fae at Art of Nonsense
I also wanted to say how special it always is to get out into a creative community, talk to other artists and art-lovers, event organizers, old and new friends, and share the joy of creativity and play! When you’re an artist who works primarily by yourself (or with your team of imaginary monster friends), it’s even more important to get out there and engage with other creatives, receive feedback about what people like about your work— and what they would like to see from you! The experience always sparks new connections, ideas, and inspiration.
Kristy Fae & Super Max at their Art of Nonsense Booth
I say this to encourage you, if you’re an artist or creative-being of ANY type, to consider a way you can connect with other creatives or share your gift this week. Perhaps that means cooking a new meal for a few friends, playing music around a campfire, hosting craft-night or finding a local art market, event, or workshop to attend. You can even find ways to connect online, if in-person isn’t feasible, as there are plenty of online groups and communities across a multitude of platforms that allow for sharing your work and ideas. You’re always welcome to share pictures of your creations on our Art of Nonsense Facebook page (by the way, be sure to follow us to keep up with the inspiration and fun!). Whatever speaks to you, see if you’re called to take one small step towards putting yourself out there this week.
I don’t know if it’s the Spring air or the energy of last weekend’s event, but I’m definitely feeling the theme of BEING BRAVE this month… what would you like your theme to be? Comment below!
If you had a pocket-monster, Would you ever wonder whether, Once your pocket-monster wandered, It’d be a pocket-monster no longer? Or if it’d be a wander-monster? Or perhaps a wandered pocket-no-longer monster? In any case of ponder, You can be assured as thunder, That a pocket-monster, wandered, Will keep up its pocket-monster wonder!
Think about a pocket-monster like a portable source of joy and comfort. Do you have something like that? Perhaps a beloved sketch book, a favourite stuffed animal, a calming stone or crystal, or a tactile fidget toy? Even a non-tangible thing like your sense of humour, playfulness, or an uplifting mantra can do wonders for your mental health and happiness! Finding ways to bring joy and comfort with us, throughout our day, out into the world, and at home or in private, is a very special gift indeed…and one that I would love to spread far and wide.
And well friends, if you want your very own ACTUAL pocket-monster, now’s your chance! Art of Nonsense is in the process of bringing to life more of our popular Beanbag Buds— the perfect monsters to carry in your pocket, or clip to your bag with their elastic loops, so they’re with you whenever you need to give ‘em a squish or a squeeze (without the worry of wandering!). They’re great conversation-starters, awesome smile-makers, and soothing-comforters too…Beanbag Buds are great sensory toys, fidget toys, toss ’em beanbags, or bag accessories…
Kristy Fae is excited to bring a few of these adoptable cuties to an Art Market this weekend, along with an array of whimsical and inspirational art prints, magnets, stickers, and some goofy, fun-loving monster puppets! You can also inquire about monster adoptions or commissions at kristy@artofnonsense.com or here
So what are the event deets?
The “New Leaf: Art Market & Making” is happening this Sunday April 2nd, 2023 from 6-9pm at the Victoria Event Centre, 1415 Broad St, Victoria BC. With free admission, musical performances, an assortment of local artists, and more, it’s bound to be a fantastic night! A big shout out to the PSR Collab and Imagine After Hours for bringing this amazing event to life— HIP HIP, HURRAY!
Visit the Facebook Event Page for the Art of Nonsense Booth here
And the “A New Leaf: Art Market & Making” Event here
Kristy Fae & Super Max at their Art of Nonsense Booth
In case anyone didn’t know this about me…I ADORE PUPPETS! There’s something extra fun and unique about getting to animate your own character with your very own inner child in the driver’s seat. Puppets have been used in play and in therapy, in entertainment and in storytelling for ages. There are all kinds of purposes hiding behind those beady eyes and hinged mouths, but what I love most about them is that they are a great opportunity/excuse/reason for PLAY! You get to channel something within you that doesn’t always get to come out in everyday life, and often, for me anyways, that’s my inner child (and boy does she LOVE to PLAY!).
So I encourage you to grab an inanimate friend (whether it’s a puppet, plushie, toy, marionette, cardboard cutout, etc) and see what happens when you let your inner creative creature out. Start by telling a simple story about your day, or telling your version of a classic fairy tale or favourite children’s book or movie. Try out different voices and personas. What if the puppet was an emotion; how would they act and what would they say? There are no rules… that’s the secret! Let yourself simply play!
Puppets and homemade toys can be made easily with nearly anything— an egg carton makes a great mouth or set of eyes, for example, and of course a sock with a few googly eyes glued on does just the trick! I’ve got hand-made monster puppets for sale if you’re looking for something fancier, but anything will do! Give it a whirl and let me know how it goes… it may take some practise to get comfortable with this, so don’t be alarmed if it’s awkward or uneventful to start! Also, it’s perfectly fine (and encouraged) to be absolutely RIDICULOUS. So if you needed it, there’s your permission. You can even use the excuse “I’m just doing my homework” 😉 Just don’t try to blame your puppet for eating your homework, fantasy only extends so far here… lol.
My favourite puppet Monster Max (aka Super Max) and I had a great time meeting everyone at the Community Art Event last night! There’s nothing like a big furry monster to break the ice, right!? Talk about a conversation starter and a convergence of the inner children in us all! We are sending out LOADS of gratitude for all the love we received at the event and for the support we were shown leading up to it. A monster-sized special thanks to the organizers at Image After Hours and the wonderful venue and staff at the Victoria Event Centre for making this Art Night possible!
Kristy Fae and Super Max the Monster at Art Night
In the next months we will be adding new products to the Art of Nonsense Shoponline: all new puppets in bright and brilliant colours, new art prints, magnets, stickers, beanbag buds fidget toys/keychains and plushies…! We can’t wait to share more monsterly fun with you all! And if you have any questions or are interested in a monster or custom work, don’t hesitate to reach out to kristy@artofnonsense.com !
Play. Create. Discover…
Thanks for stopping by… also find me and the monsters @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!
Hiya Monster Allies! Just dropping in to wish you a Happy Monster Monday and throw you some behind-the-scenes footage as I prepare products for the Art of Nonsense booth at the Community Art Night coming up on Sunday August 21st at the Victoria Event Centre, Victoria BC, from 6-9PM! Check out my Facebook event or the PCR Collaborative’s website for more info about the event!
So here’s a peek into the creative process…Yep, it starts out looking pretty rough (and I didn’t even include photos of the messy studio with 6 projects happening at once!). That’s part of the creative process! It’s a good reminder not to worry too much as the creative process starts rolling. Get messy. Be imperfect. Dive in. See what happens…something great just might be born!
These poly-bead filled, fleecy creations are great sensory or fidget toys: squish, squeeze, pet, admire, snuggle, or toss ’em. It’s SO satisfying if you’re anything like me and love a good squishable— and believe me, they ADORE the affection! Complete with a loop to attach them to your bag so they’re always there when you need them…
I’ve got more styles coming and I’ll be adding them to the online shop for adoption soon, so stay tuned! Do you think you or someone you know might like one of these? Why? Or would you love to be able to get your hands on a craft-kit to create your own? I’d love the feedback as I move forward, so let me know in the comments!
They say everything changes and yet, some things never do. Do you have any creature comforts that go back as long as you can remember? I do, so let me paint you a picture… and since elephants never forget it seems an appropriate example!
“The Ele-tent Adventures” by Kristy Fae
If you haven’t guessed it; stuffies, stories and blanket forts would be the correct answer. And if taking a trusted plush friend on a cozy adventure from the safety of your living room isn’t your thing, what is? It’s been a tough few years for most of us, and as such, this is an especially important time to get creative and to dive into your creature comforts. See if you can make some time for one of those things this week. Mine was a new plushie elephant who I’ve named Penelope 😉
Thanks for reading and remember to follow your creativity! Also find me @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and YouTubeor visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable monsters and other products!
Play. Create. Discover... 