"Mexican Paper Cut" or "Papel Picado" Sugar Skulls

Over 2 years ago, I went through a creative burst where I couldn't stop painting wood skull wall hangings. I had so much fun creating the characters in my head, and my sweet husband was constantly cutting these shapes in our garage for me. Like most of my projects though, I moved on to a new inspiration. Hmmm, maybe like a child with a new toy? I played with them, then cast them aside and found a new interest (I'm constantly doing this with my art projects). The other day, I discovered a stack of blank skull pieces, and I was hit with new inspiration! 

These guys were inspired by Mexican paper cuts (known as Papel Picado in Spanish). I absolutely adore the paper banners and designs from 
Mexico, and I decided to incorporate them into my wall hangings. It was fun to get back to painting these! They are newly listed in my Etsy shop here.

Here are some lovely images of traditional Mexican paper cuts:

                                                          Photo by Claire Montgomerie @ Monty       

                                                                       Paper cut photos courtesy of Peacay

Wedding Cake Topper

I was asked to paint a "Day of the Dead" cake topper for the sweetest couple, and they shared these pics with me. The cake looks awesome, right? That design is over the top, and it looks so tasty!

"Day of the Dead" Portrait Painting

Yes, it has truly been 2 months since my last blog post! I have missed the land of Blogger and my blog buddies! So much has been going on, that unfortunately, I haven't been able to stay on top of everything. I'm back now, though! :)

I just completed what will probably be my last custom portrait painting for the foreseeable future. I love getting to paint on canvas, and seeing the finished impact of a vibrant piece of this size (and I do get to go color and detail crazy!). However, they do take all of my focus, and a great deal of time and love. Meaning, I just can't do it all (as much as I hate admitting that). I so wish I could! I'm not complaining, I feel so very grateful that my art is requested, I just hate that I have to tell people no. Karen and John requested this painting from me last year, and they have been sooo very patient. I was so happy that I was finally able to complete it for them! Karen wanted them to be seated, and I loved getting to paint the ornate chairs. Here is the progression to its completion:

New Pretties...

My long time friend, Laurie, is coming for a visit tomorrow! In preparation for her visit, knowing I won't be able to paint for a few days, I've been trying to get some new pieces in my Etsy shop. I'm torn between taking time off and having fun with her, and the fact that I have so many new ideas that I want to create! I'm a bit of a workaholic when it comes to Illustrated Ink, so it's probably best that I'm forced to take a breather. :) Here are my newest pieces:


Vintage "Day of the Dead" Cake Topper


"Sugar Skull Gypsy" Wood Cut-Out

I also may be having the return of my jewelry, but this time featuring glass pendants with sterling silver bails. A little more delicate than my previous pieces, and good quality for an affordable price. It's under consideration, and I will keep you posted!

Hooray, October Jewelry Giveaway!

Well, I've been threatening to have my next giveaway for awhile, and it's finally here! ;)

This giveaway is for some of my new jewelry featuring my original art, and there will be 2 winners! The first item is a "Zombie Girl" necklace, on gunmetal chain with black, glass beads. Just in time for Halloween! The second item is a "Sugar Skull Gypsy" ring, the base is silver plated and adjustable. Just in time for Day of the Dead! I would really love some feedback in designing new jewelry, and would love your opinion. So, to enter, please answer the following 3 questions:

1.What length necklace do you prefer to wear? CHOKER (close to the neck), MID-CHEST (but above cleavage), or LONG (hanging anywhere from cleavage down to mid-torso).

2.Do you prefer a CHUNKY style necklace (bigger chain links and beads) or DELICATE (thin chain and smaller beads)?

3.What image are you more likely to wear? DAY OF THE DEAD (sugar skulls and such), TRADITIONAL TATTOO (swallows, peacocks, mermaids, gypsies), or ZOMBIE FUN (an example is the necklace in this giveaway).

If you follow my blog OR start following my blog, you'll be entered twice. If you Tweet about this giveaway, Facebook it, or blog about it-you'll be entered an additional time for each link. The winners will be chosen at random from a magical hat. ;) This giveaway will end on Friday, October 16th. Please leave a way for me to contact you, in case you are one of the winners! This giveaway is open to my International friends, too. Thank you in advance for entering and for your feedback!

New Pieces!

I've been holed up in my studio for the last few days creating some new pieces for my booth on S.Congress. These are just some select pieces, I've created more. :)

First, my homage to the the cupcake, complete with wings and sprinkles. This is "Cupcake Consuela", she has sparkly sockets and cherries on her cheeks.



Next, this is a cool vintage, ceramic cherub that I gave a new life to. He's holding a small pot which could be used for a candle or flowers.



Last, but not least...a sugar skull cross. This one was inspired by my love for skeleton keys! He's holding a skeleton key in his teeth, and below him is a flaming sacred heart with a lock.




If you dig these, come see me on SOCO this weekend, the 9th and 10th. If you don't live in Austin, but are interested in one of these, contact me for more pics and info, I'm always happy to ship.:) Back to work I go!

"Mano de Maria" (Hand of Mary)

I've just listed this ceramic, ring holder on eBay! I really like the contrast between the beauty of the rose in the palm, and the skeletal death on the back of the hand. I think this piece would be wicked fun for a jewelry merchant to display their wares-something unique! I'm offering free shipping and bidding starts at only $9.99!
It's stunning in person, you won't be disappointed. ;-)