Have you ever arrived at the table, Preparing for something palatable? When what could be seen, Was just SO obscene, That it looked like it came from a fable?!
Potatoes with paws and meatball-ish dogs, And critters resembling your drain clogs, Are some of the beasts That faced my defeats, Along with the spork-headed bullfrogs!
Have you ever run scared from the table, Escaping from things unpalatable? For what had been seen, Was so AWfully mean, It seemed better belonged in a stable?!
But next time you are given a big slew, Of foul-food that you turn your nose up to, Remember one fact, And be grateful that— Though it’s nasty, at least it can’t bite you!
“Palatable Monsters” Sketch by Kristy Fae
Just a fun little poem today, perhaps reminding us hooman-folk to look for gratitude in unusual places (and perhaps inspiring our fussy eaters at the same time?). In all seriousness though, I know from my own experience that during hard times or periods of struggle, it can be extremely difficult to find “the bright side” or the “non-biting side” of things. And while I definitely don’t advocate for ignoring our feelings, even the difficult ones, I do recognize the power in trying to see at least a bit of the other side, if and when we can. For example: I had a tough week. I was incapacitated by an injury and being stuck in bed hurting sucked. Yet at the same time, fun and silly phone conversations with good friends and family came of it, including the inspiration for this poem! I have so much gratitude for my tribe and the goofy moments we share: it fills my heart up and casts light even in the darkest nights. Surprises and joy can come from unexpected places, if we look for it and appreciate it. So let’s keep our hearts open, our creativity flowing… and our eyes peeled…especially if something moves on our dinner plates!
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Happy Monster Monday! Now, if you have a snake phobia, let this be your trigger warning…but I do promise, this one doesn’t bite even though he might look like he might!
When I was little, I was fascinated by creepy crawlies of all kinds. Insects, amphibians, reptiles—you name it— was of interest to my eye and my need-to-know-more curious brain. As I got older, which tends to happen to many of us “grown-ups,” I started to let my wonder be tainted by fear. My curiosity replaced by disgust. After-all, what kind of FREAKY thing sheds its entire coat of skin on a regular basis? *Shudder*… Guess what? ALL KINDS OF THINGS. And bugs aren’t MEANT to cohabitate with humans, right? Well actually, nature IS MEANT to be EVERYWHERE. It was here long before we ever were and everything came from it! There are perfectly reasonable, respectable, and remarkable reasons as to why creatures are the way they are, and if we cared enough to find out, we might appreciate them more. So why are we suddenly (or gradually) freaked out by spiders and snakes and such, and while I’m on the topic, by ANYTHING or ANYONE we don’t understand or relate to? The only explanation I can think of? Fear. And along with fear comes an even more dangerous beast: judgment.
When we judge things, we assume we know that which we don’t and thus falsely attach our belief to the thing we’re judging. If we first looked at chocolate and thought, “Ew! THAT looks gross!” and proceeded throughout our entire lives refusing to taste it, how sad would we be if we missed out on a whole lifetime of CHOCOLATE!? Yup, this theory is sound (at least for chocolate lovers such as myself). How many things do we miss out on, dismiss, push to the side, or otherwise refuse to have an experience with because of judgements we make? And yeah, we’re human, we all do it. But if we can at least be more aware of when and why we do it, we have a better chance at instigating change in ourselves that can be, well, life changing.
So maybe try saying “Hi!” to that person you see daily but don’t seem to have anything in common with and just keep an open mind. Pick up that new art medium you’ve always said “I couldn’t/wouldn’t/shouldn’t/daren’t do THAT” about. Travel to a place not on the number one travel recommendations list. Of course, caution and safety should not be thrown into the wind (yes there exist poisonous snakes that are important to be aware of), but could we use our discernment in deciding what things we may be judging that maybe we need not be?
Enter Kevin. Kevin is my cousin Zoe’s neighbourhood cat, which I didn’t know at the time when she referred to Kevin as being a menace to her own cat. Well, with two overly creative minds at work, suddenly the below scenario had been summoned up and jokes ensued about Kevin in a fit of laughter: “Watch out for Kevin!”
“Kevin the Neighbourhood Boa Constrictor” by Kristy Fae
Now this may appear to be darker humour than you’re used to from me here at Art of Nonsense, but I promise you, Kevin REALLY IS friendly and no cats were harmed metaphorically or physically in the making of this illustration. To be clear, Kevin simply pesters, not harms, this poor kitty. Now you can rest easy…
So Kevin is the reason I got thinking back to little Kristy and wondering why big Kristy is now so weirded out by snakes, like Kevin. And it got me thinking about how many other incredible and strange and wondrous creatures there are out there that I want to know all about, just like my curious mind wanted when it was carried by a younger me. Scales and skins and teeths and creepy crawly legs and all 😉 So perhaps Kevin is the first in a line-up for reclaiming “freaky” creatures with a sense of curiosity and wonder. What do you think!? If you’d like, take a moment to think about who YOUR Kevin is (a.k.a. your “freaky creature”). How could you think about it in a different light so that creatures like Kevin can get the love— or at least the respect— they so deserve? Perhaps start with a google search for a few new fun facts about your dear friend Kev…
As always friends, be sure to Follow Your Creativity (and curiosity)!
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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 YouTubeor visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable monsters and other products!
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 YouTubeor visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable monsters and other products!
In case the above photo didn’t give it away, this past week was a fun one in the Monster Studio! Inspired by a special screening of The Princess Bride at the local Vic Theatre (run by the Victoria Film Festival), I jumped into one of my favourite creative pastimes— costume making! If you’re not familiar with the classic 80’s film, there is a scene in which a giant rat-like creature, known as an R.O.U.S (Rodent of Unusual Size) makes an appearance and, well, it’s kinda hysterical. Enter the opportunity to craft a somewhat creepy, awesome, furry headpiece— complete with my fleece onesie— and make an appearance at the downtown theatre. This is a good Friday night for me. This is me in my natural habitat. Goofy. Creative. Silly. FUN. What’s your idea of a good time?
“The Creative Process”
So if you’re at all inspired to make your own creature headpiece, here’s a quick behind-the-scenes look at my creative process. After-all, you never know when the whim will come to gather a gaggle of fur-clad folks for a soiree out on the town (I highly recommend it!). I first created the main shape and frame of the headpiece out of upholstery foam, using hot glue to fasten the parts together. Then I folded over felt to create the pink nose and ears and hot-glued that, as well as fake fur, onto the foam. Using acrylic paint, I added colour and detail to the lips and nose. Finally, I glued in felt teeth and added felt to some buttons for the eyes. And ta da!
“The Completed Rat Headpiece”
For those adventurous enough to try, please share your experience below!
Thanks for reading! Continue to Follow Your Creativity @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and YouTubeor visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable monsters and other products!
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 YouTubeor visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable monsters and other products!
This week is all about reconnecting with the joy of your childhood self!
Anyone who knows me well, will tell you that I am more than just a fan of stuffed animals/plushies, and the truth is, I have always been. You know how they say that nothing is permanent? EXCEPT for my love of stuffies, that will outlast us all 😉
A few days ago, I went into my favourite toy store for plushy oogling (Kaboodles in downtown Victoria BC) and perhaps some purchasing too. I was lovingly telling the staff about what a giant kid I am still at age 37, and how my bed is more critter than Kristy. To my surprise, they informed me that most of their clientele who came in for these stuffed bundles of furry joy were adults— and especially so since this whole global pandemic hit. It made sense, despite the surprise, because after all, don’t all humans need affection, physical touch, comfort and… the ability to unconditionally and uncontrollably SNUGGLE, KISS, and PET a soft and loveable cutie at any given WHIM!? Well…you get the point. I’m a sensory person, I’m an animal lover, I’m a critter admirer, and I’m a cuddle fanatic. What else can I say, these squish-able, squeezable sacks of snug-fest spell out J-O-Y for me even on the darkest of days! And turns out I’m not alone.
Kristy Fae in Her Happy Place!
So plush or other, what’s your J-O-Y bringer? Think back to some of your happiest, earliest childhood memories. Perhaps a favourite place, thing, game, food, activity etc comes to mind? Do you melt at the thought of rolling in a pile of warm, freshly dried laundry? Do that. Did hand painting let loose your inner hysterical Picasso? Hit up the dollar store for some quick art supplies. Were you a flower-crown prince or princess? Head to the park and get pickin’! If nothing comes to mind, try something you’ve always wanted to, or YouTube “fun activities for kids” for inspiration.
Whatever it is that will light up your soul, give it a whirl. And do not let anyone convince you that you are too old, or too mature, or that the thing is meant for another gender identity than yours, or any other excuse. Because it’s not true. Also, the people who refuse to play and delight in the simple and creative joys of life, are the ones who need it the most. So don’t listen to them! Just revel in the thing and let your sweet, childlike joy bubble up and remind you what living in this world can REALLY feel like!
Then share what you did with a friend or a loved one and encourage them to get in on the game…come on, let’s play!
Living in Western Canada has me feeling extra blessed lately as Spring has begun to grace us with Her beautiful presence! The Cherry Blossom trees have outdone themselves, painting the streets and parks with inspirational fragrance and colour. I couldn’t help but create something in their honour, and these playful petalled pixies proved just the thing— I call them the Cherry Blossom Bluxsoms! And fear not if Spring is not abound in your local, for nature’s inspiration is always bountiful in any season. What has provoked you to get creative, playful or otherwise inspired lately? If you’re needing a nudge, I suggest taking a peek outside of your window.
If you liked these nature-inspired creations, stay tuned for my upcoming whimsical Self-Love Oracle Deck that will feature more of such flowerlings along with other magical creatures and monsters. Subscribe here or follow @artofnonsense on Facebook, InstagramandYouTubeor visit theArt of Nonsense Shop
Until next time, keep an eye out for those impishly fleeting inspirations and, as always, Follow Your Creativity!
Sometimes it’s important to go back to the basics. And while we may talk a lot about creativity and how to get creative, perhaps we don’t discuss often enough what creativity and being creative actually is.
The Oxford Dictionary (www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com) defines “creativity” as “the use of skill and imagination to produce something new or to produce art.” I find this interesting, because I would argue that creativity extends much further than this definition…further than creating a tangible something out of nothing or finishing with something that “qualifies” as art.
Are we not using creativity when putting together our outfit in the morning or when planning an exciting outing or activity? Are we not being creative in the way we view the world when we pick out faces in trees or imagine what it would be like to fly? And is creativity not found in the most mundane moments when we tell a joke or problem solve a block in the road?
Perhaps, though, it is just my understanding of the definition that is limiting. After all, to “produce something” is pretty vague and doesn’t necessarily mean that there needs to be something physical created to qualify as a creative pursuit. Maybe what we create is a new aesthetic, a new experience, a new viewpoint, possibility, perspective or energy. I want to challenge people who don’t view themselves as “creative” because they don’t produce “art”. Meanwhile, these same people may be building literal bridges, solving mathematical problems, making scientific discoveries, or finding ways to help other people in countless ways. ALL EXTREMELY CREATIVE THINGS! Creativity is limitless, and I believe, that as humans and monsters, we are inherently all creative— just in different ways! So if you haven’t ever done so, or need a more recent update, give yourself a good pat on the back or a mental congratulations for being a creative being! Because you are.
It’s going to feel like I jumped ship here and swam to another topic, but bear with me because I promise this next part relates. I am personally someone who really loves creating new and original things, especially, as you may know, in the realm of monsters and stories and other whimsical artwork. It brings me such joy to let my imagination (literally) run wild, sometimes without a clue as to where it will lead. To me, this is fun, exciting, fulfilling and intensely pleasing to my visual senses and mental processes. I love this so much that sometimes I forget that creativity can be expressed in other ways. As a result, I end up setting very high expectations for myself to always create “new and incredible things.” But the fact is, while some healthy goals or incentives can be helpful, a pile of unachievable expectations is definitely not. What that pile creates is stress, and stress, as some of you may have realized by this point in your lives, is a creativity BUMMER. It’s usually counterproductive to creativity. So isn’t the idea of just letting yourself have some freedom over what you feel like doing, thinking, trying, creating— well, freeing? What would happen if you just let yourself DO without worrying about the outcome? After all, if you, like me, have decided to expand the definition of “creativity” altogether, it pretty much doesn’t matter what you choose to do… you will be successful in your endeavour to get creative.
With this in mind, considering I have been learning how to draw digitally after years of drawing on paper and hitting the to-be-expected learning curves, I recently decided to focus on replicating other people’s artwork rather than creating original illustrations for a little while! GASP! Now calm down, it’s not like I am claiming to be the original artist nor am I selling this work. It’s practise. It’s fun. It’s (for me) different. And guess what? Turns out it is also both educational AND creative. DOUBLE GASP! There is something about following a step-by-step tutorial or replicating an artwork that a) takes the pressure off of needing to come up with “new and incredible things” and b) allows you to play, flow, experiment and discover in new and creative ways. No more thinking up an idea for two hours before having a subject to paint. You just paint. No more worrying about perfection in each stroke because it doesn’t matter! It’s just you and a creative process, done deal.
Now I know, this is not revolutionary. People do this all the time. It’s even taught in art schools. You replicate other people in many fields other than art too, to learn and to get a feel for something that isn’t yours. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t revolutionary for me or for some others who would benefit from a nudge. Basically, all I’m saying is to get out of your own head and try something that is new and different for you. Do something in a way you normally wouldn’t and just see what happens.
Here are my four different renderings from Jess Bircham’s fox tutorial. The original image did not come from my creative mind, but I suppose the renderings did! So in the end, I created something “new” regardless, didn’t I? And moving on from this experience, I will continue to make other “new and incredible things”— maybe even in new and incredible ways…
Four Fox Renderings by Kristy Fae based on Tutorial by Jess Bircham
If you like the idea of trying an art tutorial, I highly recommend that you check out the amazing Jess Bircham’s digital fox illustration tutorial or search for a tutorial in your chosen medium or subject on YouTube! If you do, make sure to share with the hashtag #copycatcreativity and always continue to… Follow Your Creativity!
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
Kristy Biscuit Self-Portrait
“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.
Play. Create. Discover... 