We all get a little bedraggled sometimes… a bit “burnt out” so to speak. Oh yes, burnout is a real thing. Let the Bedraggled Dragon be a reminder for us to take time out of our busy lives for rest, relaxation, and self-care BEFORE our fire is reduced to charcoal! Consider how a campfire needs tending to in order to provide the perfect roasting environment for our campfire treats. Our bodies are no different, they need the tending!
Whether it’s a nap or a spa day, making time for play or a walk in nature, or spending an hour curled up with a good book or your beloved journal— it’s all productive and important. And it will come back to us tenfold. Let’s make sure we plug our ears when we hear messages that we need to be working, giving, and slogging away every minute of our day to be worthy. Wrong! Monsters, animals, and hoomans all need and deserve time for joy and recuperation. I bet you can guess what your homework is this week 😉
Fun Fact: You are Worthy! Just a quick drop-in this Monday to remind you of this fact. Just being you makes this true. And the gifts and passions that you like to share with the world deserve appreciation, recognition, or renumeration! So many entrepreneurs and artists undervalue themselves and thus undercharge for their products and services, believing it’s the only way to lead career in what they do. In fact, quite the opposite is true: the more you know your value, and show your value, the more value others see in your work. Take the Faxolotl as an example! She knows her worth and isn’t afraid to show it…
“The Faxolotl” Poem & Illustration By Kristy Fae
If you’re looking for homework this week, try writing down 3-5 facts about yourself that help you recognize your inherent worth… or ask some of your loved ones to give you a few facts about you that they love!
What makes a monster a monster? Is a monster simply a made-up creature? Is it defined by its unique and weird attributes? Does it need special powers or to partake in particular activities? Oxford Languages states that a monster is “an imaginary creature that is typically large, ugly, and frightening” while Myriam-Webster defines a monster as “an animal or plant of abnormal form or structure.” A simple search on Google will turn up multiple interpretations of this ancient word that is believed to have “derived from the French term ‘monstre’ [which] has roots in the Latin word meaning ‘monstrum’ [or] ‘evil omen’ ” according to Word Monster. Despite the many opinions about what a monster actually is, what seems to be agreed upon is that monsters are creatures of great awe and wonder!
Here at Art of Nonsense, we love monsters of all kinds. No monster is too big or too small; too scaly or too furry; too winged or too finned. We love them all. And we love creating them. A lot of my creature inspiration started in childhood, through finding awe and wonder in the natural world, whether in real life or through wonderful resources like Owl Magazine. From sting rays to blue-footed boobies, to bats, wild cats, and even pet rats— I was fascinated by them all!
Now, even as the majority of my pencil tips end up forming creatures that didn’t exist before the drawing took place, I very much like to revisit, honour, and “play” with the beloved animals that so captured my heart and sense of wonder (and still do!). One of such favourites has always been the Platypus. In fact, my favourite stuffed animal as a child was a green Platypus, who still sits near my bed (lovingly as ever, though with significantly less “fluff” than before). Platypuses really are one of those “real-life monsters”. Firstly, because… look at them. So strange, unique, and adorable right!? I get giddy just picturing them! Also, the more I know about platypuses, the more fascinating they are to me. Here’s a few reasons why:
A Platypus somehow has what appears to be a duck’s bill, a beaver’s tail, and the feet of an otter— oh my!
Platypuses are the only group of mammals to lay eggs.
Male platypuses are one of the few mammals today that produce venom, and they do so through a hollow spur in their hind legs, which is sometimes referred to as a poisonous claw (or in my case, “a poison toe”!)… as show by my illustration below:
“Platy-Pirate” Illustration & Poem by Kristy Fae
We very much enjoyed our playtime with this special Platy-Guy today. If you’re so inspired, we challenge you to look up 3 interesting facts about your favourite animal and see if you can create an artwork based on what you find!
*A special credit and thanks goes out to TrentT for sparking the idea of a Platypus Pirate!
As creative beings, we are constantly seeking meaning. Whether through our daily lives, our art, our connections, or some other purpose or cause, we seek to make sense of ourselves, the world around us, and all the joys and griefs that come with the ride.
When we look back, there are some people in our lives that had such an extravagant impact on us that it’s impossible to separate them from us… from our understanding of things. From our own meaning. From who we are at our core.
My Granny is one of those extraordinary people. She taught us to find shapes and meaning in scribbles, to savour every last taste of a treat (to the last scrape of the cake batter!), and to run wild in the forest and hug trees. She taught us to see elves hiding in the flowers, how to send hugs and kisses on the wings of Canadian geese, and how to give a proper hug— boy could she give a hug! The kind of hug I still feel now, even though she left this world five years ago today.
My Granny taught us a lot about love. She was made of pure love…and it showed in her every word and action. From making sure everyone around her was cared for, to tending to her plants and gardens, to homemade dinners, desserts, and handmade gifts to listening with a compassionate ear and a fully present mind, and offering never-ending words of affection…Granny was, and still is, love. I feel her in the sunshine, the blades of windswept grass, and the birds soaring overhead. I hug trees as she would, and dig my hands and feet into the soil, as she so enjoyed. She found beauty and creativity in the smallest things, and loved even the smallest of creatures.
As a sensitive, loving person, I know how tough it can be to show up in a world where the same isn’t always reciprocated. Where greed often overtakes compassion, fitting-in overrides authenticity, and fear overtakes love. There are moments when I wish to dim my sensitive heart— because wouldn’t it be easier? But then I look at where I come from. I come from love. I come from compassion. I come from creativity. I come from a long line of sensitive, loving hearts. And all I have to do is pause and look at how much that love meant to me growing up; how it continues to hold me in the face of struggle and pain; how it has made me; how it is me. And that’s why I keep showing up with the intention of love. To give love, to receive love, to inspire love, to spread love. Yes, I’m sure of it: nothing is stronger, nothing is more important than sensitive, loving hearts.
When I was studying film in University, I had the opportunity to make a documentary featuring my incredible, loving, creative Granny. As a way of honouring her, who I am, and where we all come from when we trace back our meanings, I’d like to share that film today. Granny, my hero, I love you, forever and always.
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!
Monster, Fae, Animal, Merfolk, Human, or otherwise, we are all magical, mystical creators of this wild, immense universe we’ve found ourselves in.
Just dropping in on this Monster Monday to remind us all to shine our light and show up as we are, in all our magnificent, unique glory— however strange that might appear to anyone else. We all deserve to be seen, accepted, celebrated, and honoured for who we truly are.
Kristy Fae
This week’s homework is to express something residing deep within yourself. Perhaps a side of you often kept hidden? Use whatever creative process or medium compels you. I stepped into my Fairy Queen power (using my iPad, Procreate, and a found winged-fairy image) and it was quite a beautiful process to embody the energy of a Fae Being and to really see myself in a new light.
Allow yourself to see yourself in a new, mystical way and magic becomes possible…
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.
Hey creature cuddlers, monster makers and fantasy followers! With new life popping up everywhere, like the brilliantly blooming blossoms and the itty bitty hobbling goslings in the park, it feels like a great week for creating new life— especially of the fantastical kind!
And fittingly so, for if you’ve never heard of MerMay, now you have! Each May, illustrators around the globe follow prompts to get creative and draw daily or weekly— and it’s all mermaid inspired! How glorious?! If you’d like to find the prompts, and learn more, go to the official MerMay website here: www.mermay.com
I really enjoyed the first prompt, as shown below, which was “Self-Portrait”! If you’re inspired, see if you can carve out 5-10 minutes (or more) this week, find a prompt that calls to you, and see what comes out on the page! Yes, let there be life!!!
I’ve been spending a lot of time with Nature recently, and while I always find the great outdoors to be extremely soothing and refreshing, she has been sending me a distinct message lately. From the budding flowers that had been waiting underneath the cool grounds of winter; to the young Great Horned Owls slowly learning to fly as they grow stronger and the herons building their nests one twig at a time; to the sneaky fungi developing imperceptibly… patience is being whispered amidst all of Nature’s children.
Owlet siblings, Photo by Kristy Fae
In a fast-paced world, especially, it can be hard to slow down, sow our seeds, and wait for the fruits of our labour to ripen. But the flowers cannot bloom before the temperatures are right or they will freeze; the owls cannot fly before their wings are strong enough just as the herons cannot carry more than they’re able or they’ll fall; and the fungi cannot expedite their growth or they’ll exhaust their resources. Just as we cannot rush Nature, we cannot always rush our creative process, our healing, our growth, our learning, or our journey of whatever kind. So in these growing stages, why not savour the process? Enjoy feeling the strength that builds with each passing day. Celebrate each little step forward— and even each step back— for they too are valuable. Indulge in the periods of rest and the periods of action, or the “seasons”, that inevitably come and go. For these, too, are part of the journey.
The more tuned in we are, the more we may be surprised by what we find along the way— and by how much more we end up with in the end as a result of our patience and mindfulness. Then, when we get to the end and look back, we’ll be able to appreciate all we did and how much we’ve grown, and we’ll be able to say proudly, “That journey was mine, and I truly lived every part of it.”
What “season” are you currently in that you feel impatient about completing? How can you make the journey more enjoyable, more self-loving, more mindful? Feel free to comment below, for saying it aloud (or onscreen) can provide a great sense of empowerment and accountability. I also encourage you to spend at least five minutes with Nature this week (it could even be looking out your window, watching a Nature show, or imagining the wilderness, if you don’t have access to a calming, outdoor space). Commit to doing nothing but watching in stillness for those five or so minutes, and see if there’s a message being whispered to you…
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!
Play. Create. Discover... 