I’m bringin’ backgrounds back
Vibrant colors, layers, and paste with cracks
They rich with texture ….oh thats a fact
So sign up now and and I’ll teach you tricks that don’t lack..

That's right! A month or so ago I finished working out all the wonderful details for my class at the convenZioNE! I really wanted it to be an ultra-special, super fun workshop that we all enjoy... and I wanted you all to go home with a wealth of knowledge, an excitement to play & create freely, and techniques you can use on almost any surface, with practically any project!

Since ZNEis near & dear to my heart - It was important I do something above and beyond for this magnificent event! So I took a few of the classes I already teach, and a few secrets I haven't unveiled before and combined it into one workshop! In fact Iet me just quote a portion of what I wrote on the site I created especially for the class...

I put together this incredible day long workshop - because y’all asked for it. Some of my favorite techniques, for creating backgrounds that have depth, texture and that totally scrumptious richness we all crave. I really wanted to focus on a process oriented class, that would give life-long, valuable skills; so that my students can apply them to paper arts, mixed media paintings, art journals, altered surfaces and so much more! I’m offering up some of my (until now) top-secret working practices too -including how to create gorgeous pieces simultaneously, how to really save money & stretch every last ounce of your supplies.

While these are all techniques I ordinarily teach individually, typically with a completed project — this is the only time you’ll see them offered in a class just like this. Only 20 spots are available — so act fast! I’m really proud of what I put together for this amazing extravaganza — and I hope you will be too.

I am BRIMMING with excitement over this class, and the entire event too!! I CANNOT wait to get the opportunity to meet so many of you, and create memories that will last us a lifetime. True to form -- I am making sure that everyone who attends my class goes home ab-so-friggin-lutly spoiled rotten! My class registrants will receive incredible goody bags, The Create With Chrysti technique booklet in which full color photographs accompany techniques & easy to follow instructions; plus tips, tricks & more, use of the amazing all-you-can-use-art-buffet, discounts for my store -- and a few more surprises I have up my sleeve!! I love to give -- and this is the perfect platform to do so in!  

I put together a site that covers practically any questions you may have about the workshop! There's a bunch of information, more sample photos and info on how to register! So go and check it out, and even if you aren't attending my class -- I'd love to hear what you think!

The feels-like-i-am-forgetting-something (dontcha hate that feeling?)... Chrysti

Breaking News!

The ink has barely dried - but i've crossed my t's, dotted my i's and i am positively, absolutely, t h r i l l e d to be joining the uber-talented Sally Jean Alexander, JoAnnA Piertotti, Missy Balance, Gina Gabriell, Lisa Kaus, DJ Pettitt, Barbe Saint John, Deb Trotter, and Susan Tuttle as an instructor at the exciting ZNE ConvenZioNE in gorgeous Pleasanton, California this August!

I am planning an exciting workshop, that I think just know you'll LOVE! Of course, you are welcome to let me know what you think i should do too. True to form - All of my creative and talented students will go home with a plethora of goodies, treats, and supply delights too! However, the artsy goodness doesn't end there -I will have a table stocked with supplies, kits, original art & prints at the Art, Paper & Pleasures vendor event! I am planning a special, secret surprise for those that come to my table and let me know they heard about it on my blog- stay tuned for details!

I am thrilled to be a part of this amazing event -- or I wouldn't fly cross country for it! Ha! I truly hope to meet many of you there - the kinship we have formed, is the most amazing benefit of all. Besides, I need to put some faces to your names!

This event will sell out fast! Early Bird Registration opens TODAY ~ register now and save $25-$50 off the General Registration fee + get first dibs on all workshops!

Go, register - Yes, that means YOU!

Arfully Yours, Chrysti

Hugs & Kisses - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Altered Artist Chrysti

"Life beats down and crushes the soul and art reminds you that you have one."
~Stella Adler

As many of you know... I have been steadily working hard finishing artworks that I started months ago, in an effort to raise some much needed funds for my upcoming surgery in addition to paying off some of the medical bills I've accrued this year. I have numerous, archived blog entries that drone on & on about it if you are bored!

Lovey Dovey - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Mixed Media Artist Chrysti

"No great artist ever sees things as they really are. If he did, he would cease to be an artist."
~Oscar Wilde

I haven't been as diligent at promoting my new art here.. so there's quite a few new ones to add today! As always, the photo takes you to a larger picture, and the text takes you to it's place for sale. All will open in new windows.

Never Give Up - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Altered Artist Chrysti

"People often say that this or that person has not yet found himself. But the self is not something one finds, it is something one creates. "
~Thomas Szasz

I forgot just how much I enjoy creating these smaller works of art, I had been so focused on larger pieces recently, I lost sight of these tiny treasures. What a fun adventure it has been re-discovering them! I owe that, to each of you - your continued support keeps me motivated.. and each card purchased, gets me one step closer to my goal. So, once again, Thank You.

Share Joy - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Altered Artist Chrysti

"The world today doesn't make sense, so why should I paint pictures that do?"
~Pablo Picasso

I welcome ideas, themes, quotes, colors, images etc.. that you'd like to see in a batch of these collage art cards. It is a challenge for me to work off instructions.. and as I'll eventually take commissions... the challenge is one I'd like to conquer.

Sweet Baby Girl - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Altered Artist Chrysti

Which leads me to today's giveaway... the first 5 people to comment with ideas they'd like to see in an ACEO of mine, will receive an envelope full of ATC's I have cleaned out of my personal collection.

Precious - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Altered Artist Chrysti

"I know well what I am fleeing from but not what I am in search of."
~Michel de Montaigne

Speaking of cleaning out, the mass art studio/craft room clean-up I've begun is still moving full speed ahead. I want to clean out the things I have, before bringing in new furniture, and supplies. Sorting through all the things I've accumulated is inspiring within it's own right.. I keep stumbling on bits & pieces that are perfect to add to a collage in progress! Not only do I get to create, clean out supplies, use what I have, but I am slowly knocking down the huge stack of pieces I started - but never finished. Something I'm notorious for!

She Says, He Says - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Mixed Media Artist Chrysti

Today's Creating Art Cards (Artist Trading Cards, ATC's, ACEO's) Tip!

Whether it's old text, or a saying you print.. there's just something about text slapped on a piece, that seems unfinished to me. Occasionally, it suits a piece.. but in my opinion, it typically sticks out like a sore thumb.

Love You - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Mixed Media Artist Chrysti

Why not try incorporating it into your piece? Make the text a complete part of it.

Color it with inks, or watercolor.. ink the edges.. draw around it.. add shadows, walnut ink splatters.. Use water soluble crayons, or pastels to outline onto it and your base.. rub a thin coat of antiquing gel over the entire piece.. There are soooo many ways you can do this. These are just a few suggestions to get you started. It's a small, extra step that goes a long, long way.

Sealed With a Kiss - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Altered Artist Chrysti

"An artist cannot fail; it is a success to be one."
~Charles Horton Cooley

Now go, Succeed! - Chrysti

Dream of Flight - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Art Squared Piece
4" x 4"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist Chrysti

Field Notes - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist - Chrysti

Today's Creating Art Cards (Artist Trading Cards, ATC's, ACEO's) Tip!

Remember this tip? I've received quite a few questions about how I mount my cards to the mat board... It's really so simple. I use a permanent glue stick, and my bone folder to burnish it firmly to the surface. Some of my painted backgrounds, are too thick to use the glue stick... so I use gel medium instead.

Believe In Your Magic - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist - Chrysti

Another question I'm asked frequently is what I use to seal my collages.. If a collage needs sealed (not all do) ... I use Krylon's Matte Finish Spray. This is also fabulous for the pieces that have glossy elements, that I don't want glossy... it helps to unify the collage. I love this stuff!

Be Mine XOXO - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist - Chrysti

I'm also addicted to their Workable Fixatif Spray.. I use it to keep charcoal, inks, watercolors etc. from smudging while I work. I swear by this stuff.

Happy - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist - Chrysti

Now you tell me something -- what tips do you most want to hear? A girl can't give away all her secrets.. but I'll share what I can!

Strangely Good & Full of Grace - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist - Chrysti

"The poorest man is not without a cent, but without a dream."

Thank You all SO very much for your continued support! I'm slowly reaching my goal for my medical bill fundraiser with all these pieces -- and I am so much more then grateful! I'm truly touched by your kindness, support and positive thoughts -- I am indeed blessed.

Don't forget to check out today's giveaway in my earlier post! These giveaways, are just a small way for to express my gratitude.

-Chrysti

 Technorati Tags: altered art, magic, believe, collage, outsider art, chrysti, zne, mixed media, art, bird, gems, jewels, gratitude, giveaway, freebie, tip, favorite products, sealant, happy, flickr, aceo, atc, artist trading cards, love, vintage, how to

Fragile - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Art Squared Piece
4" x 4"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist Chrysti

“Snowflakes are one of nature's most fragile things, but just look at what they can do when they stick together.”

What a perfect piece to kick this off. Fragile. Much like I have been these past 6 months. Mentally, physically, and everything in between (if that's at all possible).

I can't begin to tell you what an amazing feeling it has been this week, slowly working towards my goal of regaining control over my lil life. I have found freedom within my art and a hope I forgot existed within my surroundings ... a tediously slow process, but one well worth taking. After all, It is the difficult journeys, that are the most worthwhile.

Initially, I intended to write a full entry here, but as I began to - that dreaded 'I'm so behind, I'm so utterly overwhelmed feeling' started to take me over once again. I will show you some photos of my studio this week.. and you'll begin to understand why! I'm going to use the time I set aside for writing here, to continue cleaning, and creating in there today. Hopefully - I'll get one step closer towards not having that one small thing hang over my head. Besides, art time always does me good!

Beware of Dog - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Art Squared Piece
4" x 4"
by Raleigh, NC Altered Artist Chrysti

"Its not stress that kills us, it is our reaction to it"
~Hans Selye

Ha! I felt like that proverbial dog.. just ready to snap, at any given moment, for any given reason. Some days, I still do, but I feel myself rising out that with every small step I take. So very empowering!

Bundled Up - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist Chrysti

Desire - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Altered Artist Chrysti

"Our life is frittered away by detail... Simplify, simplify"
~Henry Thoreau

And that, IS my deepest desire right now. It's why you haven't seen me 'around' as much recently. In order to get everything in order, I have to step back from some things and take that time and use it a bit more wisely. Getting organized once again, is quite possibly the best thing I have done for myself in a very long time. My health, really set me back in that department.. and it's time, long overdue - to put a full force effort into doing what needs done to thoroughly enjoy living again. Quite often, like most of us - I focus on what everyone else needs, it's 'me' time now. A Huge undertaking, but as I mentioned earlier.. one that's worth it.

I feel like a broken record some days.. but bear with me while I get everything in order, I promise - it'll be well worth the wait! I have some fabulous ideas I can't wait to take action on... but not until this is all done! So emails, etc will continue to take a backseat as I continue this Mission: Life Organization quest.

Treasure - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Altered Artist Chrysti

Today's Contest: The first 5 people to comment with their best organization/time management tip, will receive one of these brand new, fun David & Goliath Disco Queen Briefcase Purses! I'll contact you using the email address you provide in the comments section for your address.

Why Birds Sing - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist Chrysti

Today's Creating Art Cards (Artist Trading Cards, ATC's, ACEO's) Tip!

Ever have a collage, that just doesn't seem to seamlessly blend, when all elements don't' quite work together? Try unifying your collages with a wash of watered down gesso, tinted glaze, watercolor or even watered down paint.. apply a thin layer across your entire piece, or rub the glaze into the crevices. Spatter paint with a toothbrush across it all, spray walnut ink .. the possibilities are endless. Fear is what usually stops us from trying that one extra step - don't let it get the best of you! What have you got to lose?

Come back tomorrow for another give-a-way and a new tip!

Click the button below, to be notified via email when I update!

Strong Love - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist Chrysti

That Happy Time - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist Chrysti

True Love - For Sale Here!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist Chrysti

"To be what we are, and to become what we are capable of becoming, is the only end of life."
~ Robert Louis Stevenson

Well now, I ended up writing anyway didn't I? Still, not as much as I intended, so that's progress! Well, my hands & wrist are sore from all this computer time... time for me to scoot off here, and go make some more sense of my studio!

Thanks for visiting! Chrysti

His Happy Hours - For Sale!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist Chrysti

You'll notice, I opted to include the new art pieces throughout my post .. it just looks prettier then a garbled up glop of text. Clicking the photos, will take you to a larger picture that opens in a new window... Clicking the title will take you to it's place of sale (new window as well). Some are up for auction, some can bought now through e-bay and etsy.

“I never decided at all to be an artist; being an artist seems to have happened to me.”
-Anne Truitt

Love at First Sight - For Sale!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist Chrysti

Remember when I mentioned I wasn't comfortable with my blog becoming yet another "for sale" site? Well, for at least the next few weeks there's no getting around the fact I'll be trying to list daily. It's more then a financial necessity for me right now, and a guaranteed way I get to do what I love daily - art! I appreciate your support - by way of bids, purchases, and comments. I can't thank you all enough.

“If [dabbling in art] didn’t amuse me, I beg you to believe that I wouldn’t do it.”
-Renoir

Family Heritage - For Sale!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist Chrysti

Though there will be many posts that aren't related to my art sales .. I've decided that the blog entries that do center around them, will each contain some kind of tip, or trick for creating Collages, Artist Trading Cards, and ACEO's. I hope you'll find these useful! Some may be new knowledge, others may just be a reminder.. either way, I hope you'll find them to be a benefit in your own creations.

"Those who do not want to imitate anything, produce nothing."
-Salvador Dali

Cutie Patootie - For Sale!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist Chrysti

For those that have asked -No! I didn't just do all of these Art Cards recently, many have been started months and months ago... as long ago as last fall, and I'm just getting around to finishing them now. Bonus - a cleaner studio, and a more disciplined artist!

Speaking of a cleaner studio, contact me with your address if you'd like a RAK (random act of kindness) envelope with collage goodies! I will be sending these out over the next few months. Other days, I'll hold contests here.. it does pay to read!

"Have no fear of perfection, you'll never reach it."
-Salvador Dali

Embrace - For Sale!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist Chrysti

Today's Creating Art Cards (Artist Trading Cards, ATC's, ACEO's) Tip!

Finish off those card edges! Don't leave them raw!

I've seen so many Art Cards that just seem, well unfinished, or unpolished. A simple way to correct this .. is to simply finish your edges! It will unify your piece, and give it a more polished look. Ink the edges with an ink pad, use paints, ribbon, beads.. anything you can think of! My favorite is the $1.00 dye based ink pads you can get at A.C. Moore in brown.. that thing gets a daily beating from me!

Adore - For Sale!
One of a Kind Collectible Art Card (ACEO)
2.5" x 3.5"
by Raleigh, NC Outsider Artist Chrysti

"When I've painted a woman's bottom so that I want to touch it, then [the painting] is finished."
-Pierre Auguste Renoir

And with that... this entry is finished! -Chrysti