artofnonsense – Page 5 – Play. Create. Discover…

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

The Bad Artist: A Self-Portrait

February 15, 2021February 16, 2021 Kristy Fae

Hello fellow fans of Nonsense. It was a week inspired by watching the 2019 series “Dickinson” about the infamous poet. Seeing Emily’s conflict with confidence in her poetry had me reflecting on how many artists (including me) struggle with their self-worth, feeling “not good enough” and a fear of being seen. The following poem ensued, as well as this silly little self-portrait, both of which I actually quite love! Be warned that I may exaggerate slightly in the poem and that it is by no means meant to be self-deprecatory— quite the opposite rather. It is meant to be empowering! Wouldn’t it liberating to just celebrate the joy of creating and what it means to you, rather than being pulled down by the weight of perfectionism, expectation, and judgement? Create whatever makes you happy, dear ones. And remember, if you create, you are already an artist. So go and claim the title! I challenge you to create a quick 20-30 minute self-portrait this week, and share it on social media with the #drawyourselfchallenge

“A Bad Artist” by Kristy Biscuit

Some may call me a bad artist,
Not because the work I create is mediocre—
But because I don’t obey the confines,
I like to colour outside the lines
In the most literal sense.
I love imperfection.
I don’t stay inside the box
Of what it means to be a “good little artist”.
I don’t need to fit in,
I don’t like to characterize
My work by comparison to genres,
Or to other artists,
Be them classic, contemporary or whatnot.
What I create is beautiful,
But not perfect enough to fall
Under any fancy terms.
And what I create is original,
Yet not different enough
To be called revolutionary.
Some may call me a bad artist,
Because I don’t know the trends.
I don’t walk the walk,
I don’t talk the talk,
Whilst visiting fancy art shows.
I don’t pay hundreds or thousands, or more,
To hang art on my walls
To honour those “more” talented than me.
My walls drip with my own creations,
Proudly.
Yes, I prefer to create
Over viewing other’s work—
Though I occasionally do,
And am sometimes inspired—
But my preference lies
In my own muddied hands,
Muddled face,
Crumpled pages.
Yes, I prefer to create.
For creation is my fire.
Creation, my air.
Creation, my water.
Creation, the earth I tread upon.
Some may call me a bad artist,
But I say, I am a Great One,
Because what I create is mine.
It is my joy,
And nothing matters more.

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

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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, Colour-ME, Colouring Page, inspiration, Monster Monday, Monsters, Self-Love

The Heart Monster: Colour-Me with Love!

February 8, 2021February 8, 2021 Kristy Fae

Whether you’re currently out there dodging, seeking, or tending to cupid’s arrow, you’ve probably noticed that it’s February— and February is a month abundant in reminders of love, hearts, chocolate and otherwise festive symbols and gestures. Despite any prevalent customs, Valentine’s Day is still a very different experience for each and every one of us. For some, yes, romantic and exciting; for others sorrowful; and for certain people, dull or meaningless…and the list goes on. Like any other day on planet Earth, we don’t know what our fellow humans are going through, how they’re feeling, or what they’ve endured. May this time of year remind us to be gentle, compassionate, and loving: to ourselves; to our loved ones; to the strangers we pass throughout our day; and to all people and living things outside of our bubbles, our cities, and even our countries.

Love knows no bounds. And in order to celebrate LOVE from whatever position you’re viewing it from this February, I’d like to offer you this sweet and loving Heart Monster! Feel free to print him out, colour him brightly, and fill in the hearts with people or beings you’d like to send love out to this month! Let this Heart Monster be a reminder that love is in our own hearts first and foremost, and that we can extend it outwards into the world just by setting the intention to do so. I hope you enjoy this fun monster colouring page and I would love to hear about who you filled your hearts with (and I recommend including YOU!) in the comments below…

Happy Love Day Everyone!

Thanks for reading! Also find me @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterestor visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable creatures and other products.

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

The Simple Scribbler: Meaningful Meaninglessness

January 25, 2021 Kristy Fae

Sometimes it’s fun to simply draw,

Without the need to hum and haw,

So to the page the pencil goes,

And watch it as it simply flows…

Whether you’re a student of art, a professional artist, or a creative dabbler, it’s important to step away from the confines of projects and end results once in a while (or even more often than that preferably). Giving yourself time to experiment, scribble, scratch, doodle— and otherwise mess around— can not only be fun and therapeutic, but it can also give way to creations and ideas that could inspire a future project. You never know just what you might find: an outlet, a new technique, or a wacky character that jumps off the page and steals your heart! Here’s the little one born of my scribbles this week… what do you think? Should this Scribbler have his own story?

Take some time out this week to do something creative just for the sake of doing it! No means to an end. No agenda. No perfectionism. No erasing or un-doing even! Hide away from distractions and technology while you do it. Give it your full attention. Run wild with it! Take special notice of how you feel during the process— I’d love to hear about your experience and see what you end up with!

Happy creating!

If you want more nonsensical fun, find us @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable creatures and other products.

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art, Blog, Creative Learning, inspiration, Monster Monday, play

The Curious Critter: Part 2

January 18, 2021 Kristy Fae

Happy Monster Monday! I hope everyone’s had a great week. Here in Victoria, we were blessed with many sunny days and I’ve had a tough time staying inside to work (it’s been so much fun playing outside with the bobs of seals and the romps of otters— which, I’ve learned, are real terms for the families of these marine mammals! How cute is that? Oh, by the way, you can find me at “Kristy Durst Photography” on Facebook if you want to see glimpses of those adventures and more to come).

Nonetheless, I did manage to make some progress on the Curious Critter from last week, and as promised, I’m here to share the progress— so behold the first pass of colour. In case you missed last week’s blog, this is following the “Beginner’s Guide to Digital Drawing in Procreate” on 21-draw.com

And I hereby challenge you this week: go get creative or get out and play! Both are equally as important and nourishing…

*Blocking out Colour on my *Character Design* in Procreate*

Thanks for reading! Also find me @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable creatures and other fun products!

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art, Blog, Creative Learning, inspiration, Monster Monday, Self-Improvement, Writing

The Curious Critter: Expanding Horizons

January 11, 2021January 18, 2021 Kristy Fae

While I have done digital art over the years, mostly for school assignments, my main mediums of choice have always been physical ones. Whether acrylics, pastels or colour pencils, I was drawn to holding tangible tools and creating something new with my bare hands. I don’t think that the pleasure of paper drawing will ever go away for me, and for a long time, I rebelled against digital art (just as I evaded digital photography after learning film and well, has THAT ever changed! Now I’m a digital photography adorer). There is something pure and simple about the traditional way of doing art and it is an invaluable practice to keep up. Yes— and also, everything has its place…

Over the past several years, I have been honing my skills as an illustrator, but not without frustration and setbacks. I was up against chronic pain, which limited my work time, and a lack of mastery in the mediums I had settled on using for my style of illustration. Yes, I could learn with time and training, but I often got stuck and discouraged in the process and I wasn’t putting out the content or finishing the projects that my heart so longed to get out into the world. It was a bit of a coincidence when I had the chance to try drawing on an iPad for the first time. Yes, I had tried a Wacom tablet back in University and later dabbled with the Apple Trackpad, but I found them extremely imprecise, frustrating and painful to draw with (they work for many people, but I have fussy wrists!).

Now, I’m not oblivious to the benefits, conveniences and beauty of digital art, but it wasn’t until I actually tried drawing with the iPad that I went, “Ohhhhhh, WOW! It’s just like drawing on paper!” Only with layers. And innumerable colour palettes at the click of a button. And so many other options including this artist’s favourite tool— the UNDO button! But wait, do all of these fancy tools and the ability to easily change or manipulate your images mean that digital artists are less skilled, fine-tuned or talented? I admit that I had this judgement for a while, like somehow giving into digital art would discredit me as an artist. But I beg to disagree with myself. To be a good artist, you need a set of creative talents and skills, say like precision, a sense of composition and colour theory, as well as in depth knowledge of your chosen medium. Well, how about that? All of these things apply to both physical and digital art! Knowing how to use your software is just as important as knowing how to use your paint and brush to achieve the effects you desire. Art, by any other name, is still art. An artist, no matter his or her medium, is still an artist.

What I discovered about creating digital art with the iPad is that it enables me to work more efficiently, thus not overdoing myself, while creating versatile art for my many applications (much of which is used or delivered digitally, so it streamlines my process). Procreate on the iPad has been a game changer. It has opened up the possibility for me to create so much more than before! And no, I don’t intend to give up on my watercolour and gouache and whatever other medium I feel like expressing in. It’s that I now know that both digital and traditional art have their proper uses and both can actually be enjoyed more because I can choose the one that is appropriate for my project’s/schedule’s/body’s needs. While more isn’t necessarily always better, it is when doing so makes you happy!

So I’m diving into this digital world, friends, with ferocious excitement and possibility! Over the last week, I’ve started growing my skills through 21-draw.com, an online membership site of illustration tutorials (with a handful specific to Procreate). I’m working through the “Beginner’s Guide to Digital Drawing in Procreate” which is how the first few stages of this little Curious Critter character design below came to be (I’ll post the final stages once I complete them). I’m learning some new tips, tools and techniques, getting some good practise in and, of course, having a blast! When learning is fun, you know you’re learning the right stuff.

In closing, yes, there will probably be controversy on the subject of digital vs traditional art, but these are the questions that I think will give you your own specific answer: what tools and mediums enable you to let your most creative, expressive, artistic self shine through? What will allow you to make art in a way that is feasible, accessible, efficient and effective for you and your unique applications, needs, barriers, skills, etc? So what do I think? I say, who cares how you create your art— JUST CREATE IT!

Thanks for reading! Also find me @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable creatures and other fun products!

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

YOU-nique Monsters: Celebrate Individuality!

January 5, 2021January 12, 2021 Kristy Fae

Happy New Year everyone! It’s 2021, woo! The monsters and I are sending you our best wishes for a magical year ahead…

Many of us are taking this time to look back on the past year and think about what lies ahead. Remember, in this “goal-setting time”, to set reasonable and healthy goals and be gentle and kind to yourself and others! It’s not so much about what you so to speak “accomplish” in any given year (which perfectionists like me need to be reminded of) as much as it is about who you are and what you put out into the world…

So while you’re reflecting back on 2020, be sure to admire how incredible, unique and individualistic you are. Look at how you shone just by being you. What did you share with the world? Whether you consider these things big or small, they all count! A kind gesture, a positive message, care, compassion, creativity, giving to others or to yourself?

Yes, even self-care is extremely beneficial as it sets us up to be our best selves. Every single one of us contributes to those around us with our own wonderful individuality! So in the name of celebrating ourselves and each other, I challenge you to share this post with someone you love, complimenting them on one unique thing you appreciate about them!

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

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

The Hungry Monster: Let’s Celebrate!

December 7, 2020December 7, 2020 Kristy Fae

For anyone who’s noticed a gap in blogs here, don’t worry, the computer has not been eaten by a monster (though there may have been a few innocuous attempts!). No, we are all safe and sound here, and I promise, we have been anything but idle in the area of Nonsense— we’ve just been busy with it behind-the-scenes. We have been scheming, gathering, pondering and learning all kinds of wonderful things in order to bring you the ultimate goal: oodles of top-notch NONSENSE! We have been very creative-hungry monsters and I’ll be dropping a few hints today as to what is coming, but first—

Let’s turn to another important subject, one that we think greatly deserves the Art of Nonsense theme of the month for December 2020: Celebration!

I know COVID-19 has brought a tough year for many, and I’m not minimizing that— AT ALL. But let me explain myself before you will a monster to actually eat my computer. Despite any and all hardships, I think it’s important to take some time to celebrate in new ways that are safe and yet still meaningful to us. To celebrate making it through this hard year; how resilient we have been; how adaptive. Yes, many of us have slogged through seething swamps, tamed herds of wild, bouncing beasts, and put on more creative caps than we can count just to get here today. And of course let’s not forget to celebrate those incredible beings that have journeyed alongside us, keeping us hopeful, cared-for, and afloat. Let us take time to celebrate the lives of those we have sadly lost, keeping them close in our hearts and minds. Let us celebrate the holiday season, even though it will look different than usual this year. Let us celebrate all the small achievements and joys we’ve found amidst the chaos (really, no matter how small!).

For me, one such thing has been having the time to give my creativity and my monsters the attention they so deserve and crave (and believe me, their appetite is relentless!). I’ve been celebrating by investing in myself, starting off on exciting new endeavours, and following my dreams. I started writing a book about the importance of play, am at last finishing some of my children’s books, and am getting Super Max into the limelight he so loves. For me, the symbol of all these accomplishments is my new and improved Art of Nonsense “Monster Studio”— which I’ve now got set up properly, stocked up sufficiently, and ready for creation, unequivocally! How great is that?

Super Max and Friends Hangin’ Out in The Monster Studio!

As for different ways of celebrating the holidays, I’ve brought back some childhood traditions like advent calendars and Christmas candles, I’m finding dates for group video calls with friends and family, and am planning a special evening with my significant other. Also in the name of spreading joy this season, I’ve got a few more fun surprises coming your way— including a free and whacky tree ornament craft tutorial (if you’re eager to prepare, go gather and dry out a few medium-to-large sized pinecones: driftwood pieces or smooth stones would work nicely too). I’ll also be introducing a fresh batch of monster hand puppets into the Shop in new and exciting colours very soon! Make sure you’re subscribed here to the Blog and are following us on Facebook or Instagram to get all the updates!

Collect a few pinecones to prepare for our *upcoming* craft tutorial on how to make your own fun ornament!

In conclusion, let’s all try to take more moments for gratitude this month and celebrate what we do have and what small or big joys we are blessed with. Oh, and spread that sentiment like jelly on toast— remind those around you, young and old, friends and strangers, that we all have something to be grateful for. We have the power to make a moment or an occasion special if we are creative, mindful, and compassionate enough. Perhaps we can all help lift one another up with kind will, a promise of hope, gentle words, and loving actions.

Now it’s your turn. What can you celebrate this month? Or this week? Or even just today? How can you get creative this year to celebrate the holidays safely? What new traditions might you start? What can you and your loved ones plan so that you have something to look forward to, despite external factors? Let me know in the comments below!

Thanks for reading and have a safe and happy holiday season everyone!

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Blog, Creative Learning, inspiration, Monster Monday, play, Self-Help, Self-Improvement, Self-Love, Writing

The Fun Monster: Take a Play Day!

July 21, 2020June 8, 2023 Kristy Fae

Hello to all my friends out there!

So yeah, you may have caught me being late on my blog again… But I can’t help it that it’s so beautifully sunny outside lately! Can you blame me for playing hooky for a PLAY DAY? I promise you, it’s in the name of practising what I preach…

If you don’t know much about my business, Art of Nonsense, know that it’s all about inspiring creativity and play – in life and in learning! You can read more about me and my purpose here: www.artofnonsense.com/about

While I focus a lot on creating content for little monsters, like picture books, hand puppets, monster sleep masks, and whimsical illustrations, I’m also passionate about bringing out the inner child in us big monsters too. (You can browse the goodies at the online shop here!) That’s why I am so happy to let you all know about an exciting endeavour I’m undertaking! Dun dun (if you haven’t already read it on social media)…dun…

I am the author of an upcoming book about how to PLAY MORE for greater joy, connection, and fulfillment in our lives! Make sure to follow this blog or find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for updates on the upcoming book and other monsterly fun!

Now, to celebrate this theme, I’d like to share a few simple ways I’ve been adding PLAY into my days lately. Please add to the amusement momentum and share your favourite playful activities below with a comment or a picture using #monstermusement !

1. PICNICS IN THE PARK: Enjoying the sun, special eats (especially gluten free treats from Bubby Rose’s), talking to the bees, and just generally “bee-ing”.

2. BEACH VISITS WITH LOVED ONES: Whether with self, partner, friends, or little friends, gettin‘ silly and refreshing swims!

3. STOP TO SMELL THE FLOWERS: Literally, as well as just taking in any interesting sights you may find, from random art to starry skies!

4. LET YOUR INNER CHILD OUT: From funky socks, to candy teeth, to awww-ing over baby animals, let yourself express your heart’s silly delights- no matter your age!

5. SPREAD THE JOY: Sharing laughs and get-togethers, sending funny memes/pictures, creating surprises and giving special gifts.

These are just a few ideas, I hope they’ve inspired you! Have a safe and playful week everyone- and don’t forget the sunscreen!

Thanks for reading!

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Blog, Crafts, Creative Learning, Funny, Monster Monday, Monsters

“Fuzzies and Owls and Monsters, Oh My!”: Handmade Monsters

July 6, 2020 Kristy Fae

Hello to all my monster-loving friends out there! Between commissions and gifts, it’s been a busy few weeks in the Monster Workshop here. I thought you might like to see what’s been coming to life… enter fuzzy blue hand puppets and fun fleecy sleep masks! All handmade by yours truly, these puppets and masks have your play-time and rest-time covered. The fleece and felt monster hand puppets come in different styles and colours and have plastic enforced mouths for easy operation. They’re great for make-believe, role playing, story-time, sing-alongs, teaching, and fun. I’m also happy to bring back these much beloved monster sleep masks, with a new and improved design to keep light OUT and comfort IN. There will even be matching hand puppet and sleep mask sets- yes, “Oh My!”

Stay tuned for new hand puppets and sleep masks for sale in the Art of Nonsense Shop coming soon: https://artofnonsense-shop.square.site/

Monster Sleep Mask with a light-blocking nosepiece and 100% cotton backing for comfort.

Thanks for reading! Also find me @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

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art, Blog, inspiration, Monster Monday, Monsters

Monster Masters: Those Whom Inspire…

June 22, 2020 Kristy Fae

Happy Monster Monday everyone! Today I’d like to share a few of my favourite masters of monsters and creatures. These talented artists and storytellers brought such wonder and magic to my life growing up (and continue to do so! In fact, I just received Dr. Seuss’ “The Sleep Book” this past Christmas at my request!).

Their characters and tales transport me to imaginative lands; bring smiles and gasps and sometimes tears to my face; feed my creative soul with curiosity and a sense of endless possibilities; and make my heart sing with sheer delight as I fall under their utterly whimsical spells. As a kid, there was nothing like that feeling of opening a book or pressing play on a movie inspired by my idols.

I believe they, and many others who created the content I devoured as a young one, had a huge impact on how I think, create, and dream the way I do… and they inspire me to create content that has this effect on others as well. Gratitude fills my colourful heart for the dedication and brilliance of Dr. Suess, Tim Burton, Beatrix Potter, Jim Henson, Roald Dahl, Quentin Blake, Robert Munsch, Brian Froud, and so many others. For what is life without a bit of magic and imagination? Here are a few samples of their works: