Krista J Brock, The Accidental Artist

2012-02-08T08:33:00.000-08:00

So this great little co-op that has been an amazing "incubator" for my art is relocating
just a hop, skip & a jump down from it's current location!
Stay posted for all the amazing things we have planned as artists with a purpose!

Our new doors will open on March 1st so make sure to come visit!
Until then we are still open for business as usual at our current location!
Lots of new art, Valentine ideas & gifty things!

xoxo~ Krista

Late Night Mutterings...

2012-02-02T08:11:00.000-08:00

Yep that's the title of this one... late night mutterings because that's exactly what it is. It's one of those middle of the night times when the music is going, the candles are burning, and I'm on a creative roll. Actually kinda unusual for this time of year since I usually go into the I don't know how to draw anything but stick figures, my house is a mess, and all I want to do is get cozy and snuggle with my favorite people.

This winter it's different somehow... don't get me wrong the funk has come at moments, but for the most part it seems as those my magic pants, yes... magic pants with all kinds of paint, scribble, and words like BE BRAVE are doodled on them are working for me.

I told you this was a late night muttering... what else is there to do at 1am while you wait for paint to dry?!

Anyway... what mutterings do you have to share?

Here's hoping you are doing what you love, healthy, and finding time to mutter late at night!

Inspired ~

Krista

2012-01-21T12:39:00.000-08:00

As artists and people in general we like to stay

safe, protected and

blissful

in our comfort zone.

But to truly have the life you want,

you absolutely must leave the one you have behind!

Now I'm not suggesting here at all to pack your bags,

say goodbye to the ones you love,

and hit the road as a Gypsy...

but we all have something that keeps us here... in our safe little place.

Maybe it's time to take the risk to let something go.

Time to say I'm going to risk failure for a chance at success.

I'm going to be vulnerable to feel all the love I deserve.

Who knows whatever it is... take a chance!

Here's to living your life & mine

fearless, brave & blossoming!

xoxo~

Krista

2011-11-20T13:52:00.001-08:00

OH WOW!!!!

I seriously need to apologize to several blogger friends!

So for two or more years I've been blogging. Blogging as an outlet. Blogging as a way to share my art. And. Blogging to make connections.

For 2 or more years I've been thinking I've been blogging to NO ONE!!

Well in an attempt to make a greater effort.

That's a theme in my life now.

I stumbled upon the COMMENT MODERATION tab!! Holy cow!!

15 pages of comments to publish! Wow!

I wasn't the lone blogger after all!

So THANK YOU to all of you who shared such amazing stories, thoughts, prayers, and well wishes to me over the past 2 years! There are some blogger friends who continue to inspire, comment, and hung in there on my blog while I took a long soul searching break!

Please check out these amazing women and their inspirational blogs: Kelly Berkey Designs, Kolleen at Heart Swing Sisters, Cathy Bueti, and there were so many more!

XOXO~

I hope this finds everyone stumbling on happy little surprises!

Getting an Early Start

2011-11-18T05:39:00.001-08:00

Seriously, it's been almost a year since I blogged!? Okay so I have been making some major changes this past month. Fixing broken things, yea like relationships... mending broken roads, and creating new ways of doing things.So let's just say the almost one year anniversary of my not blogging is a way to publicly say I'm starting a new path in life. One of understanding, forgiveness, and yes a greater effort on my part!

Out with the old, in with the new. I think it's even showing in my work. For a while there the thought of picking up that paintbrush felt like picking up a massive rock. That's gone... creativity is flowing and with more inspiration than ever!Here's to an early start to the New Year ahead! I'm ready for a new path! I'm ready to be brave and not let the fear of failure stop me! I hope this finds all of you conquering old habits and traveling on a new more inspired path!Thanks for hanging in here while I took a long, long break!~XOXO Krista

Okay So I Guess I Have to Admit....

2011-01-26T08:33:00.000-08:00

Maybe it all wasn't an accident... this art thing that I've got going on. Maybe it was something inside that was just waiting to come out at the right time.

I have always been a big believer of when it's your time... it's your time... no matter what you're talking about. Things always have a reason for happening... something bigger, better, etc... but for some reason I've always said this was all an accident.. whatever it is I am glad it found me and I am doing what I love!

Today I wanted to share something exciting I was asked to be a part of. Back in December I was asked to be a guest on a show called, The Good Life. It's a Christian TV Program that highlights people using their God given talents and ministries.

At first I have to admit I was apprehensive about the whole thing. For one I didn't feel worthy or an Artist enough to be asked to do something like that. The self-defeating thought was that I wasn't extremely religious and would that be okay. What did I really have to talk about and would anyone really want to hear it? Blah!Blah!Blah!

Well, I'm hear to say I was wrong to think all of it! Fear is what was stopping me... fear of maybe being portrayed wrong, or being boring, or just being nervous. I actually had a great time!

Ken & Barbara the two show hosts were seriously some of the nicest people I have ever met. They made me feel at ease. The shows producer Cheryl was extremely welcoming, assuring & supportive.

In the end it was a fun experience that I am glad I did. It made me realize that maybe this all wasn't an accident. That we are all on a journey in our lives and each experience is just another stop that we make to growing, learning and reaching for our dreams.

The Good Life - Krista J. Brock - GLB120 from The Good Life on Vimeo.

I will say one thing is for sure... seeing yourself on TV is crazy! How many of us actually look in the mirror while talking? We don't! I had no idea how much I spoke with my hand and eyes... definitely funny for me to watch!

I hope this finds you discovering what you want to be doing!

xoxo~
Krista

Happy New Year & Lots of other Ramblings...

2011-01-17T10:07:00.000-08:00

Okay so 2011!!! Wow!!  

Again it is here that time when we are say: 

What are we doing here?  

.

.

.

What do we want out of life?  

.

.

.

Where are we going?  

.

.

.

How are we going to make our dreams happen? 

.

.

.

January is always a time of reflection, organizing, and endless thoughts of 

creating

changing

&

cleaning

It's a time to be 

BRAVE

DREAM

&

TRUST

that what is to be will be!

I hope this finds all of you kicking off the New Year with clear eyes, new perspective & being BRAVE in your hopes & dreams!!!

I have so many new things to share with you in the next few weeks so stay in touch... 

 Wishing you a year inspired by Life+Love+Faith

Seriously??? Almost 2 Months Has Gone By...

2010-11-18T19:44:00.000-08:00

Wow!!! I seriously cannot believe I've almost let two whole months slip by with no posting! I've missed it to be honest... I've missed putting myself out there and I've missed my sweet blogger friends popping in to say hello!

So much has gone on... luckily my neck is all back into place thanks to a miracle worker of a chiropractor! Work has been busy and I've created so many new things I'm excited about. Lots of doors are opening and I'm excited and scared all at the same time... just trying to trust that everything will be as it should be.

New things in my shop & at Artistree Co-Op

I had one of those moments today where everything seems to be going in the right direction, opportunities are happening, creativity is flowing, and I haven't completely lost my mind yet (yet) while the hubs is working out of town still... everything is going in the right direction....

BUT... and here's the big BUT.... I get nervous at those moments... I know it's not good, but I do. Putting yourself out there as an artist is scary anyway... but then when you begin to feel like it just might take off that is scary too. The fear of failure... the fear of being overwhelmed... the fear of success... so tonight I am putting a STOP to it!

I'm going to TRUST from this point forward that what will be will be... and everything will be alright... better than alright! I've had these moments before like when you hear that your going to have a little person to take care of the rest of their lives... a journey that is thrilling and scary all at the same time... one filled with ups and downs, but in the end one that brings you pure bliss even through the growing and challenging times.

So... I'm going to walk through any open doors and greet new opportunities being BRAVE and enjoying each and every moment.

Here's hoping that all of you are not letting FEAR stop you from BLISS!

XOXO~

Krista

What a Pain in the Neck!!!

2010-09-30T07:24:00.000-07:00

Sooo.... the past couple of weeks
have been all about hearing that
I'm just not as young as I once was!

Whatever!?!?

It was 20 years ago in March, it was my senior year...
big basketball game that night and

BAM
out of nowhere a car comes crashing
through a red light and so the story goes!

It appears that my neck injury stayed quiet
for a long time and now has decided enough is enough...
no more
painting while standing hunched over,
reaching far for paints,
playing tackle football on the front yard,
etc.. etc...

So rather than creating, painting,and playing ...

I've been

pulled
cracked
twisted
stretched
hammered

and endured every torture device
that the chiropractor could come up with...

I'm happy to say I think
I'm seeing the end in sight...
today I can type!

I did however get to create
a few new things
right before the big reach for paint
did me in...

I hope this finds all of you feeling great,
creating, and having fun!

I'm itching to paint
so keep your fingers crossed for me!

xoxo-

Krista

Full of Wonder... Inspiration Thursday

2010-09-16T11:43:00.000-07:00

Wonder: rapt attention or astonishment at something awesomely mysterious or new to one's experience...

It doesn't matter how big or small he always can find something new and amazing right outside our door...

Filled with an endless sense of wonder...

This is dedicated to my little man...

may society and life never stop your curiosity, wonder, and ability to see something amazing in everything you touch.

This is ADHD/Special Needs Awareness Week

something here at home we are all too familiar with...

this goes out to everyone who is full of

energy,

curiosity,

and the amazing gift of

living in the moment!

And for Kim's contribution to this post...
it's funny that she would choose a pic of her dog Soggy.

Not long ago I stumbled upon a book that was titled,
"All Dogs Have ADHD".

It's a celebration of the
boundless energy,
loyalty,
&
curiosity

This picture collaboration fit perfectly!

XOXO~ Krista

The TRUTH Will Set You Free

2010-09-08T06:32:00.000-07:00

What a statement... I've really always wondered exactly what this really meant...

"And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

I know how I've applied it to my life at different times,

or how I'd like to apply it to other's lives at certain moments,

but all along I never really got it.

Religion has always been something I'm drawn to,

but yet I've ran from it to. Being raised with little to none...

it was a fascinating mystery that many of my friends had that I did not.

As a teenager, I thought I was buddhist

and was ready to take to the world with my robe and bowl

and settle to meditate...

didn't work too well for me!

But, I think that's just it... that's part of it.... seeking the truth.

I've accidentally discovered faith through my art.

Being asked to create pieces that have scripture on them.

At first this seemed really awkward considering

I have never proclaimed to be religious...

or as I would often times say, "That into it."

But strangely enough these seem to be the pieces
that flow off my brush and onto the canvas... effortlessly.
These are the pieces that inspire me,
give life to new ideas and techniques, and almost never
(almost) frustrate me while creating.

So here is another piece inspired by faith...

something I constantly seek and

discover in my life and on this artful journey.

Faith takes truth and honesty to discover...

which can be very scary...

this morning I read a blog post from a blogger friend

who inspired this honesty...

this truth...

this inspiration for this post...

thanks Kelly... check out her amazing slide show

I think it will inspire all of us to get to what our

inspiration and truth is!

~XoXo~ Krista

Oh & P.S...

this new little canvas is perched in my etsy shop as we speak!! :D

Wow...Another Etsy Treasury!!! Thanks Andrea!!!

2010-09-07T05:41:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to take a sec this morning to thank Andrea Kalis over at

Always Andrea Images for including me in

another one of her beautiful Etsy Treasuries.

I am flattered to be part of a treasury that has a ton of beautiful

and unique pieces from other Etsy artists.

If you have a minute this morning pop over and check it out!!

Thanks again Andrea!

XOXO~ Krista

I Will Write Peace On Your Wings

2010-09-04T21:29:00.000-07:00

“I will write peace on your wings and you will fly all over the world”

~ Sadako Sasaki

A beautiful quote that inspired Linda Marcille's Treasury on Etsy. I was honored to be one of the featured artists that she chose to promote peace through art. Thank you Linda!! Please check out her shop of amazing handpainted silks and this treasury featuring some really beatuiful art from Etsy artists.

Hope your having a PEACEFUL Labor Day Weekend!

XOXO~ Krista

Yay For The Long Weekend!!!

2010-09-03T17:51:00.000-07:00

So just a quick post to pop in to remind you to sleep in, be lazy, catch up with friends, play with the kiddos, and enjoy your Labor Day Weekend!!

As a thank you to all of the support from my blogger friends, non-blogging friends, and supporters of my art and passion I'm offering BOGO (Buy One Get One...hehe) on all my Art Prints in my etsy shop until Monday!!

All you have to do is tell me what print you'd like for free in the "note to seller section" and I will ship it our asap. I've been real busy creating and listing so... if you see a mounted plaque that you would like a print of I can do that for you too!

Enjoy your weekend... and thank you for all the love!!!

XOXO~ Krista

Team Up Thursday: Keeper

2010-09-01T20:04:00.000-07:00

What was it about that little teddy bear that first captured her heart and those little hands?

Was it the tag that she liked to chew on,

or the feel of that scratchy little,

white ribbon around his neck,

or maybe the smell of vanilla that she said smelled like mommy?

Whatever it was he became a "keeper".

"Dirty Ted" as he fondly became after losing him in a rabbit cage

over Christmas break for 2 long, cold weeks became one of the family.

To this day as she turns 10 that bear is and will forever be a keeper!

When I pulled that word out of my little teacup today for Kim & I's

contribution to Team Up Thursday I immediately knew exactly

what I would be capturing with my lens.

And as she grows older I know that bear will be kept forever.

What was your favorite childhood keeper?

Kim's take on Keeper was perfect as we begin to feel some cooler air if only for a day or so, and the wind rustling the leaves. The pumpkin patches is all we have here in Florida to let us know that Fall and all it's magic is on it's way. Nothing better than finding that perfect pumpkin... the keeper.

XOXO~ Krista

Team Up Thursday: Week One "Bliss"

2010-08-26T18:09:00.000-07:00

So my good friend and fellow artist Kim over at Soggy Dog Studios

and I have decided to participate in a photo journey together.

Every week we will be part of Team Up Thursday.

This is a community of artists who pair up to capture a theme

as they see it through their lens.

Each pairing with create a diptych and

post it on their blogs and to our flikr group at

Team Up Thursday Flikr Group

Thank you to Megan over at Mental Inventory for

creating this creative way to find inspiration!

So this week we decided since we are both so incredibly undecisive

at times to each open up a book to the first page

flipped upon and read a word from it....

but as usual we still couldn't decide!

Suddenly a word popped into my head...

a word I strive for in my life...

BLISS... Bliss is the word... the theme.

So here goes... our vision of bliss...

Of course I go with something involving water... pure bliss for me and one of the kid faces. I always have said that my little man captures the epitome of pure bliss in almost everything he does. He lives in the moment without fear or boundaries to hold him back, ever curious, ever passionate, and ever blissful!

And then there's Kim... a warm cup of joe and she is the definition of... profound happiness!

Thanks for taking a through our lens!

xoxo~ Krista

In a State of Mama Braggin'

2010-08-25T21:10:00.000-07:00

Alright here goes...

I'm about to brag a bit here...

that's what moms do, right?

I have to say that I have always

considered myself so lucky

to have two kids that love

to be in my little studio

blasting the music

and creating right along side of me.

They doodle, trace, paint, color, but...

this time I think my daughter

has embarked on a journey of her own.

I'm lovin' these mixed media illustrations

and paintings that she has created!

I just thought I would share that,

she may not be the only

accidental artist in the family!

Okay I'm done braggin'...

but you have to once in a while, right?

Here's hoping this is finding you,

discovering all your hidden talents

and the gifts of others in your life!

XOXO~ Krista

Time Flies When You Are having Fun!

2010-08-22T21:43:00.000-07:00

Wow did this summer fly by. Back to:

6am alarms

lunchboxes

schedules

homework (yuck!)

rushing out the door

and collapsing at the end of the day...

but before I go to sleep and awake to "real life"...

let's remember...

lazy days

ocean breeze

learning something new

endless summer days

splish splashin

leaving the world behind only just for a moment

fun

waiting at the docks

fun in the sun

boundless energy

family

summertime beauty

laughter

making memories

smiling faces

and the beach...

Thank you summer for these memories!

xoxo~ krista

Finding Peace Among the Chaos

2010-08-18T12:00:00.000-07:00

The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature.

~Anne Frank

XOXO~

Hoping You are Out Enjoying those little reminders,

Krista

Illustration Friday Topic: Caged

2010-08-06T12:35:00.000-07:00

Fear holds many of us in our own little cage at times. Just as the fear of the risk to stay tight in the bud, we also need to break out of that cage sometimes in order to grow and fly.

XOXO~ Krista

Still Learning...

2010-08-04T07:51:00.000-07:00

"You're still learning..." something that I find myself often repeating to my seven and almost ten year old("double digits baby" as she would say).

Those times when they completely lose it and freak out because they didn't jump the bike ramp the "right way", or when they realize that they may have "thrown their friend under the bus" accidentally in front of their mom, or when things just aren't working out the way they planned and they keep making "stupid" mistakes... it's often reminded, "You are still learning!"

The funny thing is I can't remember the last time I said that to myself! I think we all have to remember as grown-ups or "old people" if you're talking to my daughter... that we are all still learning... be patient with yourself, and know that making mistakes is the only way to learn!

XOXO~ Krista

The Best Things That Have Ever Happened To Me...

2010-05-13T10:52:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while I get into a bit of a funk...

and it's at these moments when I look to the best

things that have ever happened to me.

These are the everyday reminders of what really does matter in my life. These are the people who love, inspire, and cheer me on when this funk creeps up on me.

It may be that one negative thing leads to another and another and before you know it I'm consumed. But at the end of the day all that matters is the love, understanding, and fun that I have with these three amazing people in my life!

So today make sure that no matter what funk you might be in... look around to see what is most important and before you know you will be inspired, motivated, and out of that mud that you might be stuck in!! Now I'm going to go practice what I preach!

~xoxo

Krista

Illustration Friday Topic: Detective

2010-04-16T09:12:00.000-07:00

Illustration Friday Topic: Detective

In order to discover what you are looking for you must always ask questions. But, just as a detective sometimes discovers, the answers may make you a bit uncomfortable. Get out of that comfort zone and be willing to seek and fly no matter how uncomfortable it may be at first!

xoxo ~ Krista

Illustration Friday Topic: Linked

2010-04-12T05:27:00.000-07:00

Ilustration Friday Topic: Linked

She found Him and will be eternally linked by His grace.

Just a Little Peek!

2010-03-23T08:59:00.000-07:00

Under pressure... dadadada.... that's my theme song. It seems the only road for me to trully create, be inspired, and get things done is to be completely stressed out and working round the clock. This behavior is not just born out of procrastination, it comes from a place that I have always operated from. .. I know many of you can relate! I remember cramming in college... doing fine, but all nighters are my thing... it just motivates and inspires me! As many of you know, give me a deadline far out and it just won't get done until right up to the deadline!

So... with that said I've been working away in my studio filling orders, but even cooler creating a new collection for an event that my friend Kim & I will be honored at together. We are the featured artists in April at Artistree in College Park, Florida. We decided last night that we just have to create and not critique since we are both brutally hard on ourselves! So I wanted to give a sneek peek at a few of the pieces that have been inspired by my daughter and the joys and struggles of growing up. We would love to have you join us the night of April 17th for this event!

I'm also gearing up for an event this weekend at Artistree to kick off the spring season. Many great artists will be displaying and selling their work. I have to admit though, I am extremely partial to one up and coming little artist, Jordan Brock! That's right my little man has a true love for art in between jumping ramps on his bike. He is so excited to participate in his first show. Amber may even be showing some of her peace sign pieces there as well!

I have to say that although feeling stressed works I do need to find a different way to work... it just doesn't seem like meditative painting will work so well for me! Omm... Omm... well back to the loud music, messy hands, 3am frenzy!

I hope this finds you living a happily chaotic inspired life, of course if that's what your in to!!

~xoxo

Krista

Be Free in Your Mind - Like a Cloud in the Sky!

2010-03-03T07:17:00.000-08:00

Have you ever noticed how a cloud doesn't really worry if the winds blow to the north, south, east, or west? So I've decided to be more like a cloud... I know what some of you are thinking, too much varnish on the brain! But no, I have adopted this as my new motto for inspiration and relaxation why should we worry over the things we cannot control?

Don't get me wrong that does not mean I'm going to sit back here and just wait for opportunities, I will spring into action... paint all night and create non-stop... it just means I won't worry about "will they get it", "will they like it", etc... etc... you know what I'm talking about worrying too much about all of those things we can't control. A good friend of mine sent me this yesterday and it inspired this thought. I think it doesn't matter if your an artist or a corporate exec we all can make ourselves miserable with these thoughts:

I'm going to be more like a cloud and go whichever way the wind blows... there may be some stormy times ahead, which I'm really getting kinda sick of , but the storms bring clear skies too and sometimes even better weather ahead! So with this, my March calendar is full, and April is filling up with lots of opportunities to be inspired, create, and let the wind direct my path.

So I'm off like a cloud in the sky to Jordan's class to bring Eric Carles, Little Cloud to life with a cloudy little creation! Can't wait to see their reaction to painting with vasoline!!

I hope this finds you doing your best always, but letting the results take care of themselves!!

~Krista

Winter Blahs Are Trying to Get Me!!

2010-02-17T21:46:00.000-08:00

I find myself stuck in my cold winter mood a lot lately... it seems that every January and February I fall into hibernation mode. Do any of you ever feel that way or is it just me? Ya know that feeling that you just lived through yet another year. The time you get kinda reflective on what you have accomplished and what lies ahead. This tends to be a time of self-doubt and a period of looking for my creativity again.

As much as I've struggled with getting my oomph back, my desire to create I have forged ahead and created a few things. Lately they have been pieces that were commissioned for another, but were solely inspired by my life...my kids. My feelings about them and my hopes and dreams for their lives. Sometimes life can be hard filled, with challenges like what's fair and not fair. The only thing we as parents can hope for is that our children believe in themselves and know how much they are loved and believed in by us.

So with February wrapping up I find myself noticing a little bit of inspiration here and there, a feeling of better things to come, and a desire to share a little bit of that with all of you! Here is just a peek of what has made it's way out of the cold, cold winter and onto a canvas! Hope you enjoy! All prints of the originals are available in my etsy shop www.etsy.com/shop/kristajbrock and other places around town!

I'd love to hear what makes your spark of creativity come alive again.

Hope this finds all of you thawing out and looking towards warmer, brighter days!

xoxo~

Krista

Looking at Life Through the Lens: A Photo Session with Paris Carter Photography

2010-02-02T09:45:00.000-08:00

The other day I received something that did my heart and soul some good! It was just one of those weeks when nothing seemed to be going right. Where that knot that is tied so tight at the end of the rope just seemed to unravel. I had the opportunity to be photographed by a friend and amazing photogrpaher, Paris Carter of Paris Carter Photography!

Paris not only possesses an amazing talent to capture the raw element of what is happening before her eyes, but she truly is a woman who is an inspiration too! Living everyday with faith, belief, and hope... she drops little notes on Facebook each day to uplift everyone who reads her l posts. She has inspired some of my favorite paintings, and I am so grateful for that.

I wanted to just share some of the pictures she took that day. It was a day that took my blues away for a moment. We cracked up as I made a fool of myself... realizing I was definetly no model! Give me a paintbrush and I know what to do with my hands, plop me in front of a camera now that's scary!

I think you will find that the way she captures the light and her subject is quite beautiful! She creates art through her camera and brings it to life! What an amazing talent she has! You can stop by her website at www.pariscarterphotography.com

Follow her blog while your at it!!

I hope this finds everyone living life to the fullest!

~xoxo, Krista

Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see - Hebrew 11:1

2010-01-26T08:36:00.000-08:00

I love this scripture... I just think that no matter who you are, what your beliefs are, and where you are in your life... it's just so true. It's something that I find myself continuing to rely on lately. Times are tough for everyone right now... but Hope (yep, I said it... I know I've gripped about how hope doesn't pay for my car!), but there I said it... believing in hope is all we have sometimes.

I do have to say that I do, despite life's challenges that take over, I do feel incredibly blessed that I have found this accidental passion. So many closed doors have opened some big, bright new ones for me...

and I am grateful for that.

With that said my strong desire to help those in need has found me trying to do whatever creative thing I can to help! So in the next couple of days a piece of my art with the above scripture will be in my shop for sale with a link that will go directly to "God's Littlest Angels in Haiti". This orphanage had tough times prior to the Earthquake caring mostly for preemies, but now they have estimated that an average of 100 children will be added to their care every month! Please check out their website for more info: glainhaiti.org and stay posted for my etsy sale! There is also another great site that some of my artwork as well as my two little artists will be donating to in the next month... check it out...http://www.etsy.com/shop/crafthope they have raised over $27,000 for Haiti through artists donated work!

I will also have a little announcement next week about a new little boutique that more of my items have moved into... and I'm neighbors in there with someone I have long admired! I have created some new pieces that sit perched in there and I am so excited! This piece is just a peek at some of my new mounted prints that will be available there and online! Thanks to all my friends, family, and commissioned work for being such an inspiration to me... it's hard to find that creative drive without all of you!

I hope this finds all of you enjoying what you love to do, believing in what you want to believe, and being grateful for all we have! Enjoy the beautiful day we have!

~Krista

Yippee...It's Back!!!!

2010-01-13T05:22:00.000-08:00

After a long winter's nap my umph, roll, mojo, bliss... whatever you call it is back!! I found my creativity again! I was beginning to think it got a wee bit spoiled sleeping in, taking naps, playing, and hanging out with the kids all day long! It just refused to get up and work for the past couple of days... not so good when we have things to do.

And yes, I'm speaking of my creativity like it's a person (that's what happens when you stay up to 4am using spray varnish!) But really it is like a person it's a huge part of what I love to do and without her I can't make anything but a blob on a piece of wood... not very pretty. Of course I need to give credit to the funky cat for always shreddin up the papers that inspire!

Sticking with one of my New Year's Resolutions so I'm blogging... blah... blah... blah... excited about the rest of the week filled with lot of ways to inspire, climb higher, and create! Just in time to get ready for our "artsy" photo shoot with a good friend and amazing photographer this weekend! Check out her website and give some love

http://www.pariscarterphotography.com/

X0X0 ~ Krista

Here's to New Possibilities, New Challenges, and a Great New Year!!

2010-01-07T08:44:00.000-08:00

So it's that time of year when I completely reorganize, declutter, and feng shui the place!!! I also drive everyone in the house crazy with my talks of trying something new, tackling goals we have yet to complete, and making a change in the new year! This of course can be translated by many in the house to... mom rearranging all the furniture, cleaning out closets, and attempting to feng shui the house! Oh and also, of course tackling their rooms as they've never tackled them before!

I'd also like to think of it as a great time to get started on creating lots of new things that inspire others to do acheive in heights. So stop by my etsy shop for the sale that began today on all 2009 pieces and get inspired! You can also find some new inspirational pieces in the shop too! http://www.etsy.com/shop/KristaJBrock

But seriously I do think this is a great time to inspire yourselves to do something different. So many people ask why I called myself the accidental artist. So many people say they have no talent and could never paint or create... challenge yourself to find your talent by accident!

I also wanted to share some of the highlights of the year with you and hope that you tell me some of yours... here goes...

Discovering my true source and inspiration for my art... I do have to give Him the credit!

Finally being able to call myself an artist without laughing... this is hard to do!

Actually being able to call my being an artist a job... and it's proving to get better and better!

Learning my scripture pieces proudly hang in a small village church in Kenya!

This was definitely a highlight! Pics and more info to come!

Being able to call myself Internationally owned... seriously I would never had thought... this one hangs in Canada and several other places!

Watching my two truly amazing kid faces grow into incredible people!

There were so many more, but onto what's to come...

Lots of new pieces in the works for my scripture collection. The one I'm most excited about is the pieces called, "Journey Through Faith" inspired by my sister-in-law's twin sister who is battling terminal cancer. This piece will represent her challenges, obstacles ahead, and her faith that helped her fight her fight... she truly is one of the most inspirational people I know. All proceeds from this piece will go directly to Inheritance of Hope. Please check out their website to learn more about this amazing organization www.inheritanceofhope.org!!!

Also to come is my calendar "Journey Far" featuring what will be 12 of my Journey far girls who all are inspired by different women on different adventures in their life.

I hope this New Year will fill you with tons of inspirations, possibilities, and fun in your life!! Happy New Year! Don't forget to leave a comment I love hearing from you!

xoxo-

Krista

Just Like that and Poof I'm an Elf!!

2009-11-18T05:25:00.000-08:00

So for about 2 months now the stores have bedazzled themselves in Christmas glitter... I fought it, I denied it, and finally I've accepted it... Christmas is right around the corner... I've joined in the creating frenzy!

Created especially for my little punk...

this is so her motto!

Can't get enough of making these little birds...

hanging by their beaded twisty wire

Little homes... favorite things to make

Love this expression... if we could all have this in our hearts all year...

the world would be a great place!

Just finished this last night for a little girl...it has her favorite scripture on it. I loved making this one!

Just wanted to pop in to show you some of what I've been up to and to let you that all of these originals will be up in my shop as altered prints for you to decorate with. Remember altered prints are bumpy and textured too for all of you who love and appreciate that part of art! Give me a second to clean the paint and varnish off my hands and I will place them very carefully in my little etsy shop... http://www.etsy.com/shop/KristaJBrock

I hope everyone is finding themselves caught up in the cooler weather, and happy feeling of the season!

~Krista

Believe in Possibilities and You Will Go far!

2009-11-09T20:11:00.000-08:00

Okay so my little blogger bird whispered in my ear the other day to remind me that all I need to do when I write is pretend I'm just talking to her... blabbing her ear off! So are you listening??

Hey there, it's been a bit crazy busy in my little world over here. I've been creating some new things, painting some requested things, and brainstorming  lots of christmasy things.  My little black book (actually a sketch pad) has been filling up with important dates to remember, sketches, verses, scriptures, and more to pop into my little creations.

So after finishing another girl for my Journey Far series... I've decided I really am addicted to making these girls who get to travel the world and accomplish great things... that is after I get through all my questions of doubt with them and all my little names for them!  I do love making these girls and will be making a calendar... even if it's just for me and my little bird to hang to remind us of all the important things we have to do!

So believing in possibilities has taken me far lately and before I jump to another topic as I often do here are a couple things I'd like to mention:

-my etsy shop is being updated everyday... as another personal goal! I've read a million pages from etsy that says listing something everyday will make you millions... not really, but it goes with my favorite saying... you list it and they will come!

-my new Journey far girl - Believe in Possibilities is sitting there in my etsy shop www.kristajbrock.etsy.com as a altered print of the original just waiting for a home!
-Go Green where you can have mimosas, treats, shopping, and fun is coming up at Artistree in College Park on Thursday, November 19th... please come out to see some great art from many local artists... they have added so many more this year!
-Kim & I will be out at Howey-in-the-Hills Annual Christmas Art Show on Saturday December 12th... Santa will be there too!!

Okay and now it's time to brag about the kid faces a little bit:
-Amber has developed a disorder not commonly known called, "I can't stop cheering, jumping, round-offing, and clapping"... she even has her dad, brother & I stunting, but all of this is in preparation for her big event at UCF. Yep, my little tom boy (or so we thought) is going to the UCF Pop Warner Regional Cheer Competition!! Go SOUTH LAKE JR. PEE WEE Squad!!

-After having Jordan's left foot insured as recommend by his soccer coach... remember Jordan is 6! No seriously, I think we will hold off on the insurance but, I do have to say my little man is the man on the soccer field these days!  We are excited for his final games this Friday night!! Although after going to his first Gator game with all daddy, daddad, and all the Brock dudes he still wants to be a football player... and with that arm I think he will... just sayin'... I know I'm bragging, but hey that's what mom's do... right?

Okay so look I was pretending like I was talking to my little bird and there I went rambling... blah...blah...blah....  I gotta go!  I'm supposed to be painting!!
Thanks for listening!  Oh and for all of you teachers out there, I was told I'm allowed to make silly mistakes while writing my blog so there, put your red pens away!!

~Krista

Okay, alright I'll write another one this week!!

2009-11-04T16:53:00.000-08:00

My great friend Kim of Soggy Dog Studios challenged us both a while back to attempt to blog everyday... okay so I've lost that challenge... so what!? I can hear you all muttering... no actually it's just that, does anyone really want to hear my ramblings everyday? Maybe! Who really knows...

I do have to say I love hearing all of my fellow bloggers ramblings all the time so here goes... blogging once a week and this week I have so many things to be grateful for! Things like selling two originals this week for the first time... by a great woman that I had an opportunity to meet who really admired my work, and I didn't even know her! For all you new and emerging artists you know how exciting this can be! I was so humbled, grateful, and thankful to have met her and to have acquired a "new fan" as she put it!!

Many of you can understand we all go through periods of doubt, uncreativeness (Is that a word? It is now!), and an overall lack of umph! I have to say though that believing in myself even when I really don't,has given me all of the creativity, positivity, and confidence that I need to create and love what I'm doing...
it's all part of the journey!

I've also been back creating my "Journey Far" girl. She is the one who is constantly on a journey ofexploration and is not afraid of any of the challenges along the way. She first landed herself in France and now thanks to a commissioned piece I'm creating she is landing herself in a more tropical place... I love creating her and living vicaiously through her travels! She has inspired me to create a series of 12 journeys for a calendar that I hope to have ready in time for the new year! Stay posted!

So many opportunities have been popping up that I am so excited about and yet there is still thatlittle feeling of doubt and overwhelmingness (another word to add to your vocab!) but so thankful
for my small little group of blogging friends that offer support and cheer!

So grateful for my friends that always offer advice, words of encouragement and help. And finally so grateful for my family... my two little artists who don't mind me covered in paint all the time because they join in, and my full-time wood cutter (I love you) without you guys I definitely would just be a girl in messy clothes, playing in paint... but now this accidental artist is beginning to feel "real"
thanks to all of you

Oh and don't forget to stop by Artistree ( formerly know as Cottage Industry) ifyour up for some mimosas and art!

Have a great Fall day... it's absolutely beautiful out there!
~Krista

IF: Skinny

2009-10-31T09:37:00.001-07:00

The tree doesn't always have to be the most grand to hold the most opportunities, sometimes the skinniest of trees can hold the most possibilities!

Can't Get Enough of this Time of Year

2009-10-28T08:34:00.000-07:00

This definitely has to be my favorite time of year...
even if there are not piles of Fall leaves everywhere and it's still humid when I run ,
it's still in the air!

I have a little bit of the season tucked away in
every corner of my house...

pumpkins, skulls, fall leaves, and the scent of cinnamon everywhere. There is something about it... the
magical, mysterious, windy nights...
that little chance to show a
sinister side with a twist of whimsy!

Our own little pumpkin patch right outside our door

It makes me wanna get outside and I did yesterday to trim away the bushes in front of my studio window and let me tell you if your looking for a major upper body and jaw workout...
I know, that's weird... trimming bushes and chopping branches will do it...
but hey I can see out my window now at all the butterflies fluttering by and those small little brown leaves falling.

Get out and play, walk on some trails, dress up, and have a blast... it's an amazing season... 
don't let it pass you by!

Don't forget to stop by and visit my Etsy shop... oh and with the holidays approaching it's a good time to buy handmade!
I love custom requests for plaques, letters, murals, and anything you can think of painting or collaging!

Happy Fall Everyone~ Krista 

I'm Bursting with Gratitude & On a Roll of Creativity

2009-09-30T19:36:00.000-07:00

Okay so Fall has arrived here in Florida and it's just amazing... began with a crisp walk to begin what will prove to be yet another busy day in my little make shift studio!

It's been crazy busy around here and I've been on a great creative roll... when it stops nobody knows but I've been taking full advantage of it. Of course with this rush and Fall being here the sniffles began and I ended up with two sick kids. Jordan thought it would be a great way to rest in his pj's painting and the above pic is what came of that (my little artist!). I loved it immediately and asked if I could write some words on it... it's now hanging right above my desk... continuing to inspire me and reminding me to create like a child... with no limits or expectations.

I'm also getting ready to ship out my first big order to a cute little coffee house in Oregon! I am so excited that my pieces of work will be proudly displayed out west! This whole process has taught me a lot about being organized, working all night long, and not being afraid to ask friends for help (thanks Kim for beading!) This excitement also comes with a large dose of nervousness... will they sell out there? Will they be a success? Etc... Etc... but this experience has also taught me to RELAX, TRUST, and BELIEVE !

Along with outside orders came a bunch of orders from friends and family and for that I am so grateful and flattered that they would like to give my work as gifts to special people in their lives. Through creating some of these letters, memorial plaques, b-day plaques, and more I've learned a bit about different peoples lives and that alone has been so inspiring! So thank you to those people and you know who you are!

Like I said, Fall is here and the calendar looks busy... lots of work to be done, but also my favorite time to enjoy with my family! Cheerleading, Football, Soccer, and of course Hay Rides and Trick or Treating... all of this and more in my life continues to be a source of happiness and inspiration!

Thank you for reading my ramblings! Later today I will have an Etsy Store update... be sure to check it out! Also, if your in the neighborhood come by ArtistTree (formerly known as Cottage Industry) for an outdoor art eventwith wares from local artists including my great friend
Kim Turner of Soggy Dog Studios and my work too!

Happy Fall everyone... get out and enjoy it!!

~Krista

IF Topic: Infinite

2009-09-21T19:05:00.001-07:00

As many of you know I have not always been outwardly religious. I have always felt your spirituality is something personal and special to you. For the past few months however my art and the people commissioning my art have led my creativity in a whole new direction.

This piece describes infinite perfectly to me because life and His Love are infinite.

IF Topic: Welcome

2009-09-14T18:41:00.000-07:00

Frog extends a big welcome to duck!

Wings are Spread & I'm Ready to Go!

2009-08-12T19:18:00.000-07:00

Okay so you found me and I'm nervous and oh so excited about my new solo adventures in blogging!

For the past month or so some of you may have heard me mention the number 4 just a few times... okay fine maybe a lot more than a few... so what! At first I was seeing animals in groups of four everywhere, so I began to think okay maybe I need to start building an ark... crazy I know! Then the 4 began popping up in strange places, conversations, and art, weird huh? What I didn't know was that this number 4 is a great number for artists like me, it stands for creativity!! Not so weird anymore as I've been on quite a creative roll.

This number 4 comes at a time when I've found my art taking direction, style, and a flow that I've never had before... sometimes making me feel like not such an accidental artist! So here it is the start of a creative journey where I will now begin to spread my wings and watch it take off...

My art is off to Oregon to Siuslaw Coffee House, quaint little shop that spotted my art in Cottage Industry here in Florida... I am oh so excited! With my memorial, birthday, and scipture plaques taking off I feel like I'm running my own little sweat shop over here!

Life is good and busy as usual with the kiddos... I'm being pulled in a million different directions but have never been so inspired to create before! Stay tuned for upcoming events! Thanks for following me over here to my new blog and make sure to subscribe so you can receive shop updates!

Thanks for following me over here!

-Krista, The Accidental Artist