Monsters – Play. Create. Discover…

Blog, Funny, illustration, Monster Monday, Monsters, play

The Choc-o-lot Sneak: Just for the Fun of it!

October 17, 2023 Kristy Fae

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!

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!

Play. Create. Discover… also find us @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable monsters and other products!

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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! © 2023 Kristy Anne Fae All Rights Reserved.

Blog, Crafts, creative living, Fidget toys, inspiration, Monster Monday, play, puppets, Sensory, Toys

The Courageous Creative: Putting Yourself Out There!

April 10, 2023 Kristy Fae

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… also find me @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable monsters and other products!

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Blog, Crafts, Fidget toys, Monster Monday, Monsters, play, puppets, Self-Love, Sensory, Toys

The Pocket-Monster: Carrying Joy & Comfort With You, Wherever You Go…

March 27, 2023 Kristy Fae

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

Play. Create. Discover… also find me @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop!

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Blog, Crafts, creative living, Fidget toys, Monster Monday, Monsters, play, Sensory, Toys

The Mess-Monster: Trusting the Creative Process

August 15, 2022 Kristy Fae

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!

Play. Create. Discover…

Also find me @artofnonsense on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop for adoptable monsters and other products!

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

The Ralwus: Waking Your Inner Beast!

May 23, 2022 Kristy Fae

The Ralwus by Kristy Fae

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

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

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

IT’S TIME TO WAKE THE RALWUS!

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

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

The Cherry Blossom Bluxsoms: Catching Fleeting Inspirations

April 18, 2022 Kristy Fae

“Flowerlings” by Kristy Fae

When inspirations sudden come,

It feels as through the Spring has sprung!

The Flowerlings leap to and from,

Like thoughts on mind and words on tongue!

You’ll feel them on the tips of toes,

Or through a tickle in the nose,

You’ll sense their sweetness as it grows

From Cherry-Blossom or Primrose.

You’ll spot them prancing on the breeze,

Or teasing hungry bumble bees,

But catch them softly— never squeeze,

For inspiration, forced, fast flees!

The Cherry Blossom Bluxsoms by Kristy Fae

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, Instagram and YouTube or visit the Art of Nonsense Shop

Until next time, keep an eye out for those impishly fleeting inspirations and, as always, Follow Your Creativity!

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

The Grim Bitter: Better Your Bitter

March 1, 2021March 2, 2021 Kristy Fae

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

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

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

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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, 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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