He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how… or… My word for 2013

There is a lot to think and say about Nietzsche…not here though- LOL- but this quote above by him…is a smart one! So…let’s get a bit philosophical…sigh ;)

I have thought long about my word for 2013. Last year it was “transform”. I transformed in different ways, than I anticipated. But still I guess I transformed…2012 was a hard year for me…in many ways. A lot of questioning in different directions…and over the question how to do certain things, I lost my reasons why I was doing them.

Why did I quit my job, why did I become a mixed media artist, why do I blog, why do I do Creative JumpStart, why do I take care of my great-aunt, why am I on the house condo committee, why ….?

Everything last year was just about : How? How to manage financially, how to get further with my art, how to keep up with blogging, how to organize Creative JumpStart and how to take care of all things related to taking care of an elderly person, how to …HOW..?

I lost myself in the how… and that although I do so perfectly know WHY! I do know all the why’s to those things. I do ! I just need to keep my focus on that instead of how…the rest will just come …hopefully LOL. Just today I had to remind myself again on the why I do something…

that’s WHY! ;)

Ah- and the canvas…well it is the old one from last year – “transform”- was transformed- so there ;)

Have a gorgeous day!

Huge Hugs

nat

Nat

Comments (26)

samara

January 7, 2013 at 9:16 pm | #

Hi Nat…are the creative jump start on hold? i haven’t received one after Julie’s. I’m loving them so just wondering. Now I found YOUR blog I have to go looking around. Byezie…talk back soon. Lovies, samara

Reply
- M. Carmen - Cuchy
  
  January 7, 2013 at 9:39 pm | #
  
  Hi Samara, I?m Cuchy, one of the jumpstarters.
  Please, read the FAQ’s and try what we suggest. unsubscribe and subscribe again or use another email account. If that do not work, send a message to cjs email, please.
  thank you, Cuchy
  
  Reply
lacyquilter

January 7, 2013 at 5:41 am | #

Fabulous canvas! I totally love all the wonderful texture.

Reply
Marjie Kemper

January 4, 2013 at 4:59 pm | #

That’s one gorgeous canvas, Nat. LOVE it. WHY? Because you made it, and you rock!

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Sue Clarke

January 4, 2013 at 2:49 pm | #

What so you don’t want comments on the shriek post Nat.
Why you are almost evil and mean (totally kidding of course).
You give so much for free that a few days off is just fine.
CJS rocks as usual. Thanks for doing it. A donation will find it’s way there by the end of the month for sure. It’s like a super online class with variety and inspiration!
Happy CHA even though I’m sure the deadlines will be stressful the community of artists will lift your spirits (and keep you up late). Who knows, maybe you’ll find a new pair of
shoes?

Reply
Anne Kristin Tandberg

January 4, 2013 at 7:34 am | #

Thank you for inspiring me! I am thinking of a word for 2013 – but haven´t come up with one yet! But I have a 1/2 made canvas that I know I will use for my Word. Looking forward to follow you this year.

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Carrie

January 4, 2013 at 4:52 am | #

Love it! It really is easy to get too bogged down in “how” when you’re overwhelmed. I like this idea of having a word for the year. My mom has started doing it too. I guess my word for 2013 is “better,” because I really need things to be better than last year!

Happy New Year, I’m glad we met at Create!

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mjmarmo

January 3, 2013 at 1:08 pm | #

Great word!! LOVE the canvas. Mine is confidence.

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ruby t

January 3, 2013 at 10:35 am | #

Yes, you have given me quiet a bit to think about in this post.
I like how you re-used the canvas….all of the thoughts will be in one place.

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Linda Tieu (@tortagialla)

January 3, 2013 at 8:51 am | #

fabulous word of the year. I love reading how each person interprets their word!

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Cassandra

January 3, 2013 at 7:44 am | #

Philosophical, but also profound. I would venture to add – doing things for the wrong reasons is almost worse than not doing them at all! Looking forward to seeing you discover you why over the next year! Thanks for the inspiration today!

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Chantalyon

January 3, 2013 at 7:39 am | #

I love the word “why” it makes us go ahead no?………
Beautiful canvas.
I wish you a very good year full of happiness……..

Reply
Mary Bennetts

January 3, 2013 at 6:39 am | #

I happen to think you are a very amazing , kind, sharing, creative soul. Thank you for sharing so freely and openly, wishing you all good things in 2013, because you deserve all good things
Mary

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Suzanne Bouchard

January 3, 2013 at 6:08 am | #

How when were why, they all have in common an “H” that I will use to wish you a very “Happy new Year”! Thank you so much for the inspiration and the education on techniques and all! Wish you would live near here. I am in Quebec Canada!

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Cindi Walsh

January 3, 2013 at 5:32 am | #

Hi Nathalie! I like your word for 2013! “Why” The perfect word to keep you focused on what is important. Focus is not my strong suit! I’m sure you are very busy … but if you get a chance, do you think you could email me Creative JumpStart #1? For some reason I found JumpStart #2 in my inbox but not #1. I checked my Spam and Trash folders but it was not there. I’m not sure why I got the 2nd jumpstart just fine and not the first? Crazy right?

Thanks so much. If it’s not possible, I’ll wait for the recap at the end of the month. JumpStart #2 was inspiring!

Happy New Year!

Cindi Walsh

(I was in your “book nut” class at Everything Scrapbook and Stamps in Florida. It was a lot of fun and I’m so glad I got to meet you in person!)

Reply
Kelly Belton

January 3, 2013 at 2:29 am | #

i love that you quoted Nietzsche – I have a degree in philosophy and it was this quote that pulled me into studying it!

Love the colours in the canvas too – in addition to it using my favorite word!

Reply
- Kelly Belton
  
  January 3, 2013 at 3:57 am | #
  
  Well – it was the discussion of the thoughts expressed in the quote actually, to be truly philosophical about it!
  
  Reply
ladynorth

January 3, 2013 at 2:29 am | #

Dear Nat..to which I would add another word (who says you have to stick with one? lol)
NOT! as WHY NOT! changes the whole thing doesn’t it?

Reply
Martha Richardson

January 3, 2013 at 2:19 am | #

GREAT post…GREAT quote…GREAT canvas all from a GREAT artist!

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Maxine B

January 3, 2013 at 1:48 am | #

Somewhere along the “messages” I missed the first password, of two, needed to view the videos. Looks really interesting, guess being is 70, just “two” old,

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Pearl Maple

January 2, 2013 at 10:48 pm | #

fabulous colourful canvas to celebrate your word and great theme of transforming from how to why, there is much to celebrate in why

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Kathy

January 2, 2013 at 10:46 pm | #

Cool canvas, Nat. And good word…just don’t let it get you down, worrying WHY you do something……think more about the good things it brings you!

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Nadège

January 2, 2013 at 10:25 pm | #

This is stunning! I loooove it!

Reply
Mariette de Ruiter

January 2, 2013 at 10:19 pm | #

Heb jiji deze ook gehad

Groetjes Mariette

Op 2 jan. 2013 om 22:03 heeft Nathalie’s Studio het volgende geschreven:

> >

Reply
Kathy Gledsdale

January 2, 2013 at 10:14 pm | #

It was a rubbish year for me, so let us ‘Hope’ as well for this year. Hope that this year will be a special year for us both, full of joy, energy and good health. A beautiful canvas too!
I for one am jolly pleased you do blog, you give me inspiration and happiness looking at your art work!

Reply
Katja

January 2, 2013 at 10:06 pm | #

You have made a very good point there. Like it!

Reply

Hide Comments

Winding Down: My Top Ten Mixed Media Projects of 2012

It has become a tradition for me to wind down the year on my blog by posting some Top Ten Lists before the year ends. It makes me go back and look at what I have done and accomplished and it also makes me dwell in memories. Too often we forget about the things we did and accomplished throughout the year- often just bashing ourselves for not fulfilling all the wonderful new year’s resolutions from last year. Maybe this makes you wanna do it too – if so – share :)

This art journal page which I showed with a fun video tutorial is still one of my favorites because of the happy colors and the technique.

This Canvas I created for very dear friends – I had so much fun making it and I am so happy for their little addition to the family.

MiniBook Cover which is part of a class I taught with several other artists organized by Donna Downey- called Internationally Inspired.

Another art journal page- which is actually part of my Über*Media Gesso Online Workshop. It says “Not Reaching for the stars! I am just reaching for my personal star – one that just shines for me!” Pretty much sums up my year.

A canvas which just makes me happy with texture and colors- this one I actually also teach right now as an in-person Workshop- but it is also part of my Über*Media Acrylic Paint Workshop . I think it might be my favorite class to teach at the moment.

Happy Canvas :) I love it because I made the products just my own.

An artjournal page which is part of the Whatevers Storytelling Project. For this sgraffito background I posted also a technique video .

I sneak this altered project in here- I love it because it was a bit unusual for me- a little Sardine tin.

Also not really Mixed Media- but Altered Book…I love this book. I had a blast creating it with many wonderful heritage picture of my aunt Margot.

This Canvas is probably my absolute favorite of the year. It says: Before I die, I want to become the person that I am

If I look at my Mixed Media Projects this year- I can definitely say that the love for texture got even heavier. I totally embraced texture in every possible way- and I still don’t see the end of it for me. I also seem to like to do bigger statements in my work and there is also a lot of hidden meaning involved in the way I incorporate techniques and materials with a theme or thought. Also pretty clear that I had a little love for bold happy colors this year- lot’s of orange, red and yellow ;)

Which of my posted projects do you like the best?

Huge hugs

Nat

Gypsy Chaos

January 4, 2013 at 12:13 am | #

The sardine can captured my attention – I’m leaning towards altered art recently and this is an excellent example.

I like your “Before I Die” – it is inspiring me to try a different path to finding who I am these days. I don’t have a dream job aspiration – I HAD my dream job for ~15 years, but it’s over now.

Reply
Kelly Belton

December 31, 2012 at 4:04 pm | #

I love that sardine tin! The altered book cover is beautiful, I’m sure the treasured memories inside are equally so. “Love” is so beautiful – and has inspired me to step away from my tendency to dark and try a very heavily embellished canvas – all in tones of white. As always – thanks for the inspiration Nat.

Reply
SusanJane

December 29, 2012 at 6:53 pm | #

What an exciting year! I do love all the colors you indulged in as well as the finished results. It is so worth coming to your blog everyday. Looking forward to next year!

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Sue Clarke

December 29, 2012 at 3:25 am | #

I don’t remember seeing the sardine can project and it is super cute. My fav is the one of you and hubby. The use of so much white from you caught me off guard. It’s very romantic. Happy New Year Nat!

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Andrene

December 28, 2012 at 9:35 pm | #

I cannot pick just one – before I die, summer and love are awesome. A spoonful of texture (the whole album) is one of my favorites – loved that class! And the sardine can is the coolest!

Reply
christinemobuddy

December 28, 2012 at 4:32 pm | #

I am surprised to say that I love the 1st one using Dylusions. Thanks for sharing…also love before I die

Reply
Sandy

December 28, 2012 at 2:36 pm | #

I love the Summer canvas. Are you going to have the Über*Media Acrylic Paint Online Workshop again?

Reply
- nathalie-kalbach
  
  December 28, 2012 at 2:40 pm | #
  
  Sandy do you mean online or in person? Online it is here and running- all content is available for signup at any time you want: http://nathaliesstudio.com/online-workshops/ubermedia/acrylic-paint-english-3/ The canvas though is only part of the full class.
  have a gorgeous day
  nat
  
  Reply
Sandi McLean

December 28, 2012 at 2:33 pm | #

Hard to pick a favourite! Mostly everything you do inspires me to create something different or to think differently…I would say that is exactly what inspiration should be. Warmest wishes for 2013!

Reply
mjmarmo

December 28, 2012 at 1:29 pm | #

Your work is so inspiring! Love the Whatevers page! I see many which use bold bright colors!

Reply
Jenny Palmer

December 28, 2012 at 8:03 am | #

Hi Nat
I love the last one the best “Before I die”
that always makes me think of what kind of person am I turning into
hugs and waves from Tasmania
Jenny

Reply

Hide Comments

Frohe Weihnachten or Happy Holidays!

In Germany we celebrate Christmas starting on Christmas Eve therefore on December 24. As a kid this means…this is a LOOOOONNNNGGGGGGG day…because you have to wait till it gets dark to finally start celebrating Christmas and also see what Santa brought for you.

As an adult as it gets dark pretty early it means the day is really SHOOoooooRT because the stores (read you have to stock up for 3 days in food etc) will be closed in the afternoon, and then also on the 25th and the 26th- because we celebrate 3 days . It means- while you read it – I am probably standing in line at the grocery store trying to get the last eggs, the last fresh milk and getting our fresh turkey at the butcher. (if you read it later..I am celebrating already with my loved ones :) )

And you know what- I loooooooveeee it! It is so much fun preparing all this for a couple days of festivities. I most likely will meet some of the neighbors and people around, everyone is excited and happy and chatty while waiting in line…what is not to love about this? I love this time…! I will see you back on December 27!

I am wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season and those that celebrate Christmas a Very Merry Christmas!

Huge hugs and Love

Nat

marjiekemper

December 26, 2012 at 4:18 am | #

Oh, Nat, the colors and textures are just totally pulling me in… LOVE it! And the idea of just giving into the long holiday is very restful… shopping for food here for the holidays is a bit less kind (my dh is the shopper and he will tell you he meets some frightful people in the produce aisles at holiday time!) Wishing you and your honey the merriest Christmas and happiest New Year. xx

Reply
Riikka

December 25, 2012 at 9:36 pm | #

Merry Christmas and sweet holidays! <3

Reply
Kelly Belton

December 25, 2012 at 6:12 am | #

Have a wonderful Christmas Nathalie, from all of your friends in Toronto!

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Nicole H.

December 24, 2012 at 10:37 pm | #

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to your and yours Nat!! Hugs, Nicole

Reply
Deborah Pierro

December 24, 2012 at 6:48 pm | #

Nat–Have a wonderful Christmas and Happy 2013! xoxoxo

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Jean Marmo

December 24, 2012 at 4:27 pm | #

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas!! We will be celebrating here later today when my son is able to get home.

Reply
Lisa Flaherty

December 24, 2012 at 4:25 pm | #

Merry Christmas, Nat!! Stay warm and enjoy all it’s pleasures! :)

Reply
Renee

December 24, 2012 at 4:02 pm | #

Thank You for such a wonderful post! Makes me feel like I am reading a story book.
Merry Christmas!

Reply
Madeline Rains

December 24, 2012 at 3:13 pm | #

Sounds wonderful! I love how so many in Europe still go to market every day for fresh food. Wonderful. Merry Christmas from an organic farm in Georgia, in the US.

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Dara Lynn

December 24, 2012 at 2:51 pm | #

Merry Christmas to you, hubby, and family….from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Reply
Sue Clarke

December 24, 2012 at 2:35 pm | #

Wishing you, hubby and kitty the best Christmas ever!
And may you have a blessed New Year. Enjoy:-)

Reply
Mariana Granoni

December 24, 2012 at 12:45 pm | #

Merry Christmas Nathalie! From Argentina :)

Reply
Petrin Diaz

December 24, 2012 at 12:36 pm | #

Oh, your story is so inspiring! Each place in the world has its own ways to celebrate Adviento, and yours is very special! Lovely! Hope you and your family a joyful time…thanks for describing!

Reply
Anne

December 24, 2012 at 11:58 am | #

Frohe Weihnachten und viel Erfolg!
Liebe Grüße nach Hamburg.

Reply
Cuchy

December 24, 2012 at 11:42 am | #

¡Feliz Navidad!

Reply
MichaelaBM

December 24, 2012 at 10:17 am | #

Liebe Nat,
Ich wünsche Dir und Deinen Lieben ein wunderschönes Weihnachtsfest und einen guten Rutsch in ein tolles, aufregendes und kreatives neues Jahr!
Liebe Grüße
Michaela

Reply
corinne de france MARCH

December 24, 2012 at 8:26 am | #

un joyeux Noël pour vous et votre famille Nathalie
corinnedefrance

Reply
Ingrid Steinberger

December 24, 2012 at 7:09 am | #

Ich wünsche dir ein wunderschönes Weihnachtsfest und alles Gute und viel Erfolg im Jahr 2013.
glg Ingrid

Reply
- nathalie-kalbach
  
  December 24, 2012 at 7:11 am | #
  
  LIebe Ingrid, das wünsche ich Dir und Deinen Lieben auch! Es war wunderschön, Dich dieses Jahr gleich zweimal zu sehen :) Sei gedrückt, nat
  
  Reply

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Scrappeland in Norway Challenge or…Win a spot in Über*Media Gesso

Very thrilled to be the guest designer for scrappeland.no this month. Scrappeland is a wonderful message board in Norway and they do some really cool features and tutorials throughout the month.

Here is my contribution. On the message board you can find how this canvas was made (in Norwegian AND in English) and there is also a challenge to create something based on my tutorial. You can win a free seat in my running 5 week-long Über*Media Gesso Online Workshop if you play along in the challenge and upload your project at Scrappeland here.

Can’t wait to see all the projects :)

Have a wonderful day!

Huge hugs

nat

Nat

Comments (7)

suzieq23

December 7, 2012 at 5:16 am | #

where is the message board so I can see how you made this awesome tree page?? tks

Reply
- nathalie-kalbach
  
  December 7, 2012 at 8:45 am | #
  
  suze, here http://scrappeland.no/gjestedesigner-for-desember-nathalie-kalbach
  hope you like it
  nat
  
  Reply
Eniko DeLisle

December 3, 2012 at 3:42 pm | #

Loving this, you clever girl! Very charming!

Reply
Jesica Aguilar

December 3, 2012 at 1:28 am | #

Thank you for chairing your work. I love it!!!

Thank You.

Jesica Aguilar

Reply
mjmarmo

December 2, 2012 at 6:46 pm | #

This is so cute!!

Reply
Lisa Flaherty

December 2, 2012 at 6:09 pm | #

Charming piece, Nat! That background has such great texture! And, on closer inspection, I had a nice giggle from the paper with the smiley-face angels! Cute!

Reply
Sue Clarke

December 2, 2012 at 3:59 pm | #

Oooh, I need to make a tree like that…so simple and yet so appealing to my eye.

Reply

Hide Comments

Marble Marvel Or…ALMOST Senseless Post Title

Why ALMOST senseless post title? Well – my brain runs weird sometimes. I was going to work with some photos taken in Amalfi in Italy and that lead to thinking of the awesome marbled notebook I bought there with Amalfi Paper, which reminded me of the sheet of marbled paper I made showing the technique in my Über*Media Acrylic Ink Online Workshop and so I used that. Well…and Marbel and Marvel..they rhyme…but…really…let’s just stop LOL …because who knows what other nonsense I come up with posting today ;)

Supplies: Cardstock, Liquitex Acrylic Inks, stamps: Autumn Leaves and Stamper’s Anonymous, Scrapbook Adhesive by 3 L MyStik. Heidi Swapp Chipboard Letters, Molotow Markers

For this layout I actually got some of my former most favorite stamps out- these crazy stitches by Autumn Leaves. I found them while rummaging on the search for something for my friend Sandra who wanted to take some stamps with her for a kid’s school project. I was so giddy when I found them (she probably makes a good imitation of me finding them ;) ) …I had to use them right away!

What are you favorite stamps?

huge hugs

Nat

Comments (5)

Jean Marmo

November 24, 2012 at 5:10 am | #

So pretty!

Reply
Milagros

November 23, 2012 at 10:59 pm | #

Just beautiful!!!!! Hughs

Reply
Ilona

November 23, 2012 at 10:21 pm | #

Was inspired to draw, when I saw your post today :-)
Seems to be a fantastic place – Amalfi

http://ih-billedkunst.blogspot.de

Reply
Sue Clarke

November 23, 2012 at 3:35 pm | #

I really like that stamp of stitches…looks so real. I love my Tim Holtz stamps the best because they leave a clear impression. So many stamps that I have just don’t come out clearly.

Reply
france papillon

November 23, 2012 at 8:17 am | #

i love your nonsense hon, keep it coming!
gorgeous page by the way, lolll
and my favorite stamps? that’s no secret: Stampotique!

bereknuffel ;)

Reply

Hide Comments

Carrying Heavy To Learn To Say Stop!

Although I see myself as a person who mostly knows what she wants, I am having a hard time to set my boundaries towards people who are aggressively stating what they want and overrun me. It makes me mad at myself , because it is my own fault! Let me give you a made up example:

You have a wedding party and you invited your closest friends because you want to keep it small, and then a neighbor you like but you wouldn’t call a close friend, hears about the wedding and next time you meet in the hallway, that neighbor says “Hey, so awesome you are having a wedding party. I heard about it, I love it. I wanna be invited! You make sure I am on the invitation list, right?”

My weakness in this moment is, I can’t say no. I also don’t want to say “Well, we only invite close friends” because I think I might hurt the person indicating, that it is not a close enough friend. Although actually exactly that way of approaching me is putting me off to no end. And that I can’t say no, makes me so mad at myself because I failed to reply in the way I really want to “I am sorry ,but…”

Indeed it makes me so mad at myself, I would almost like to put the wedding off. (not really…but as said… this is a made up example and if any of my friends are reading this- none of you did this for our wedding and all of you have been invited because we love you guys to no end!!! – plus you wouldn’t be my friends if you would be like the described person – seriously ;) )

I myself am the person that sits pouting in her room because she wasn’t on the invitation list, then ever ever saying out loud “I wanna be invited”. I always assume, I would have been included, if I was really wanted. I love to suffer in silence- LOL

Supplies: 7Gypsies Paper, Prima Brick Wall Stamp, Stamper’s Anonymous Stamp, Masking Tape, Heidi Swapp Color Shine, Tim Holtz Film, Ranger’s Distress Stain, Acrylic Paint, Heidi Swapp Chipboard Letters, Posca Marker, Stapler

I need to stop thinking that if I say no, or say ” I will think about this”, the person will be really really mad at me and never ever talk to me again. And, even if…right, then they obviously don’t give a rat’s tail about my boundaries and why would I want to respect them more than they do respect me?

I am working on it…promised!

Are you good in setting your boundaries?

Huge hugs

Nat

Comments (15)

marjiekemper

November 21, 2012 at 1:41 am | #

I love this layout and I wish people hadn’t put you in that position. I think anyone who’s that bold needs a reality check. You’re right to say no. Can you imagine how annoying it would be to say yes, then see the person on your big special day and be resentful she’s there?

Reply
Riikka

November 20, 2012 at 6:44 pm | #

Same here, too. But I’m trying to learn.

Reply
Birgit Koopsen

November 20, 2012 at 12:17 pm | #

OMGosh, the story of my life…. yep, have to work on that too!!

Reply
peg

November 20, 2012 at 4:22 am | #

I keep my boundaries very close so I don’t often have this problem. My issue is more one of isolating myself…..can’t stuff up if you don’t put yourself out there right?

Reply
Jenny Palmer

November 20, 2012 at 3:15 am | #

Hi nat
I can relate to this but I have realised that as i get older i am better at saying “no” and being more confortable
remember you cant please everyone nor should you
you are not hear to please the masses
don’t be too hard on yourself and love the art
have a great day
Jenny
waves from Tassie

Reply
Sue Clarke

November 20, 2012 at 1:45 am | #

I really like the background and how the distressing makes me feel that you don’t like how the situation went. I have much better boundaries than I used to. When I was just out of college and working in the mental health field I would come home and feel so bad about not being able to “save the world”. Later I realized that each person has to save themselves (with some help if desired). So as hard as it was, I gave the support and tools that I knew how to and hoped for the best. I usually tell it like it is these days (that happened after I turned 40)=some sort of freedom to just be me.

Reply
Ilona

November 19, 2012 at 9:51 pm | #

Great of you to tell us and give us the chance to do so too! I have sort of the same problem, but I’m working on it.
I really like your work of art you posted today. It is cool in its expression and colors. Street-art like, that’s great :-)

Reply
SusanJane

November 19, 2012 at 8:46 pm | #

I’ve been dealing with boundaries in a big way. My 86 year old mother has another compression fracture from falling… again. One has to be not waiting on her. The doctor what’s her up and moving around. Yes, she is in pain, but old people who stay in bed get worse, not better, because of muscle loss and psychological issues. The other one is making sure I take care of myself. I have to sleep, have to rest, have to shower now and then. It’s hard because I feel guilty and irritated at the same time. It’s finding balance for me.

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Carolyn Dube

November 19, 2012 at 5:48 pm | #

Boundaries? I am quite good at knowing where they are and waving to them as they get crossed by others…Of course, my art benefits from it because I usually turn to my art journal when I realize I should have said no! I love how you used the film strips on this- the page has such a great weathered and worn feeling- just like people who say yes too often!

Reply
Eniko DeLisle

November 19, 2012 at 2:52 pm | #

It is a struggle at times, isn’t it? (Love how you expressed your feelings in your artwork, Nat!) Don’t be upset with yourself, though…it is normal to be mixed-up when people act inappropriately…they throw us off our game…that’s how they always get what they want

Reply
Janet

November 19, 2012 at 2:45 pm | #

Me Too! I suffer in silence! Art is a great way to express your True feelings!

Reply
mjmarmo

November 19, 2012 at 1:30 pm | #

I think we can all relate to this!

Reply
LaurieJay

November 19, 2012 at 1:25 pm | #

I’m getting better at it than I used to be…….I can relate to the part about pouting in your room!

Reply
Marsha.

November 19, 2012 at 10:29 am | #

No… I’m not. And it’s always getting me into trouble. But I’m working on it, just like you are!

Reply
Michelle LaPoint Rydell

November 19, 2012 at 7:13 am | #

Ohhh Nat – I have a hard time with this too! I can totally relate! You are so right – if people can’t handle you having boundaries, then they are not worth worrying about! I need to hear this too. Thanks for sharing!

Reply

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Smart Trip or…Nourish your Soul

Recently I got up very early on a sunday morning to tackle some deadlines and projects. My husband was still asleep and I stood in my studio and I had a shrugging moment of “meh”. I felt un-inspired, dull and I felt the urge to do anything but what was necessary that day.

When I peeked out of the window I realized that it was going to be a promising sunny smiling fall sunday. So I jumped into the bed room and made my husband who was still jet lagged after coming back a couple of hours earlier from California and with a 9 hour time difference in his bones getting up by yelling “Get up , get up, we have breakfast and then we go out into the woods”. To which he more or less friendly mumbled something which I interpreted in my own selfish way as “Sure honey, what a brilliant idea. I will be flying out of bed and I am so happy to interrupt my sleep and drive with you into the woods for a walk”. It took a little while until he interpreted this the same way though ;)

We took “our” little Smart car…well – we do city car sharing, so you just check out where the next little Smart car is parked in your neighborhood and you are ready to take it and go, and we drove to the Sachsenwald out of the City. Beautiful Forrest – mixed oak and beech trees. We were only there for about an hour walk but we had such a great time, the colors, the sun , the fresh air and our conversation – AWESOME.

I came home so inspired and full of ideas from this walk and also full of energy for my work that I actually was able to do all my tasks way faster than usually – probably not only because I was so refueled but also because I just focused then on getting my “schtuff” done. It also freed my head and I made a decision during this walk regarding some ideas, that were giving me a headache for a while. And then this Fall Canvas which is another sample project for my workshop Season Canvas is actually inspired by this walk too.

So…wasn’t this walk a necessity too in order to finally be able to do all the work I had to do? It is so important that we take care and balance the times we work, we create, we spent time with loved ones, we go out into nature and else. Nourish your soul by giving in sometimes and do what you want to do or do something that the situation allows you to do (like a surprisingly sunny fall day), instead of thinking “no time, no place, can’t do it, it will break my neck”. It can help you tackle all other things way easier and might inspire you in ways you haven’t thought it would. Give yourself permission for some fun and get out of your rut once in a while !

Where did you go on your last short trip?

Huge hugs

Nat

Comments (11)

Kim Dellow

November 11, 2012 at 10:34 pm | #

All looks beautiful, the photos, the canvas. Perfect refuelling! Kim

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Micki

November 10, 2012 at 6:22 pm | #

ahhhh, Sachsenwald. Mensch jetzt hab ich aber heimweh! I miss-miss-miss the trees/forests soooo much! The older I get the more I miss it. Totally love what you created. I LOVE the color red!!!!! And that is what comes to mind when thinking Fall. (red,orange).
Hm, lets see my last short trip….. it’s been too long since we’ve done that. But about a 45 minute drive brings us to Weston Bend Park which is located along the bluffs of the Missouri river across from Leavenworth (we we used to live). Lots of trees and paths, so it reminds me a lot of Germany.

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zeffy

November 10, 2012 at 5:32 pm | #

Hello Natalie…your post was very touching today…they sat stop and smell the roses…I am so inspired!!! thank-you.love zeffy.
By the way I just LOVE your canvas…love those 2 colours together!!

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mjmarmo

November 10, 2012 at 5:27 pm | #

So pretty!! We ave a cottage a couple of hours north and we are headed there this afternoon!

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Sue Clarke

November 10, 2012 at 4:53 pm | #

A nice long walk around the neighborhood with my doggie Jessie usually clears my head and makes her very happy.

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sylvia

November 10, 2012 at 1:56 pm | #

that was smart indeed ;) i agree, we totally newd to get out of the city and into the woods from time to time to get recharged!

Reply
- nathalie-kalbach
  
  November 10, 2012 at 4:04 pm | #
  
  I know you love the city as much as I do but indeed the lack of seasons makes me itch to go out now and then :)
  
  Reply
Michelle McCosh

November 10, 2012 at 1:55 pm | #

omg, the texture on your canvas is incredible. and the view from the walk in the woods makes me want to go find somewhere to walk and recharge myself. Thanks for sharing, Michelle

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- nathalie-kalbach
  
  November 10, 2012 at 4:05 pm | #
  
  Thank you Michelle! Looking forward seeing you so soon and then you can see the canvases in real life – the texture is so hard to capture :) Have a hopefully great walk ! hugs
  
  Reply
Jenny Palmer

November 10, 2012 at 8:40 am | #

Hi Nat
That is so true you need to refuel I know I do we go to Cradle Mountain [it’s in our “backyard”] it is a world heritage area inTassie it is so close to us and it doesnt matter the season we just go
glad you had a great day

Reply
- nathalie-kalbach
  
  November 10, 2012 at 4:06 pm | #
  
  Jenny, that souns so beautiful! I want to visit one day! have a wonderful weekend! hugs nat
  
  Reply

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My Favorite Mixed Media Essentials: 5. Stencils & Masks

I often get emails asking me about my favorite tools or supplies and I actually love those emails because they make me think of why I tend to use some things all the time.

Is it laziness? What is it about these items that make me grab for them whenever I create a Mixed Media Project?

One of the answers that came up for almost all of them is “I use them because of their versatility of usage” . That is an easy guess for an answer- LOL- since I named my favorite Online Workshop series Über*Media playing on the fact that you can use some items so MANY different ways.

But let me take you the next couple weeks on a little journey on my favorite Mixed Media essentials and explain why I could bathe in them and show you where I used them.

If you missed the other posts in this series – you can catch up here

5. Stencils & Masks

Stencils and Masks are a constant companion of mine while creating. If you would see the stack of stencils I own you would think I am a hoarder (well I am in some perspective ;) )- but to my excuse I have to say- I might own like 15 times the same stencil because I use them in my workshops a lot. Because they are AWESOME to use in all kinds of projects!

What I love about Stencils & Masks:

You can add with many different paint media wonderful images to a project
You can use them to create dimension and layers
They can be an awesome tool to add texture
They can be wonderful stamps
You can use them for Embossing
They can be easily created by yourself
If made out of the right material they can be used FOREVER
They can ground a background
You can also use them for tracing patterns

Here are some examples:

Using Stencils to trace the stars and make dimensional embellishments and with paint medium

Creating Texture with Black Gesso and Stencil

Stencils with Graffiti Spray Paints layered for a plant pot

with mostly self made stencils

Texture with mixed acrylic paint and artist spackle

Stencil used in a Die Cut Machine with Canvas Fabric to dry emboss

Masks used with ink pads for a background

Masks used with heavy bodied Acrylic paints

with water based spray paints

with a marker

Cut out stencil image

And there is so much more!

Which Stencils & Masks I love to use:

As always in this series- the answer to this question is based on my preferences, my style and my experiences

Since I do love to create texture with my stencils and masks I am always on the hunt for thicker material
I do love to use plastic or similar material ones because I want to use them FOREVER and with wet paint media too
Of course since I create my own designs for Stencil Girl Products – I love my own designs for them :) (It would be weird if not ;) ) and I love their designs by the other artists too! Very cool stencils.
The other brands I use that in my eyes have the most awesome designs and are of thicker design and the material I like (and I might miss some of course – I can only list the ones I own and tried!) are by: The Crafter’s Workshop (I think I probably have almost all of them – mostly Julie Fei Fan Balzer Designs and Ronda Palazzari but also some of Dyan’s – still missing on Dina Wakley’s – this has to change!), Tattered Angels (they do not make them anymore at the moment so I hold on to my old ones), and Pink Paislee (only had a few desings- but I do love them!)
I do love some of the thinner masks too – I try to use those more with spray paints or dry paint media, so that I do not ruin them. The thinner the material the more you can expect detailed images and intriguing images. So it is a bit: one or the other. As designs for thick ones I love a lot of the Prima Marketing Masks that are out there – but again they are very thin and must be treated carefully in order to not rip them.
self-made stencils – I love to use thick plastic sheets or cardboard for this. Crafter’s Workshop Templates is now actually now also offering sheets to make your own stencils.
House hold item stencils- there is a lot of things that you can use as stencils that you probably have: lace, punchinella, screen mash, nets that hold your potatoes or onions, plastic place mats that have a cut out pattern, die cuts…just look at your supplies and think how it could look like if you would use spray paint or other paint media over it.
Letter Stencils from the Hardware or Art Supply store because I love to add titles with stenciled letters

Crackle Stencil L169	Circuit Stencil L161	Whats the point Stencil	StandUp Bass Stencil	Typewriter Stencil	Oldtimer Stencil S122
Cascading Leaves Jessica Sporn	Wonky Circles small Stencil	Crafter’s Workshop Lotus Template	Crafters’ Workshop Template Harlequin	Eye Chart Stencil	Layered Star Stencil
Mini Chickenwire Reversed Stencil	Cloud Stencil	Circle Grid Template	Peacock Feathers Stencil	Dylusions Dotted Flower Stencil	City Scape Stencil
Letter Jumble Stencil	Pattern Leave Stencil	Crafters Workshop Sunburst	Mini Ledger Stencil	Alphabet Stencils

InLinkz.com

I hope you enjoy this series- next Mixed Media Essentials is coming soon :)

What are your Favorite Mixed Media Essentials?

hugs

nat

Nat

Comments (11)

Marjie Kemper

November 8, 2012 at 12:06 am | #

You’re singing my song, Nat… love love LOVE stencils. If you get your hands on some Stencil Girl Products you will like them too… funky designs and a fair weight. Loved seeing all these gorgeous samples especially that cool pink/purple LO with the big alpha letters. Happy Kitting!

Reply
Carrie

November 7, 2012 at 2:38 am | #

Trying to catch up on my blog reading again – I’ve missed so much! Love this post on stencils and masks. You’ve got some fantastic ones. I love them too, and have been using them more and more. Do you have any of Michelle Ward’s stencils yet? I have some of them, and they’re great, really good material too.

Reply
- nathalie-kalbach
  
  November 7, 2012 at 10:28 pm | #
  
  Totally have to get some of hers too ! Thanks for the reminder!
  Have a wonderful day! Hope you were not hit too bad by the storm! hugs
  nat
  
  Reply
Alicia

November 6, 2012 at 10:26 pm | #

Thanks for the info Nathalie…!! I think all your works are great and all the technics seems very interesting…!!! Keep you informed.!
Best regards!!

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Jessica

November 6, 2012 at 4:12 pm | #

I love this series! It reminds me of different ways to use my supplies. My latest fave is modeling paste – I like to spread it over stencils with a spatula and then let it dry overnight. Great raised texture!

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Sherri Sinclair

November 5, 2012 at 5:26 pm | #

Thank you so much for doing the essentials series. I love to try some if the products you use and it gets my creative thinking going in different ways on some items. Thanks!

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Jean Marmo

November 5, 2012 at 1:42 pm | #

Love the versatility!! I definitely need more stencils and masks!

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Sue Clarke

November 5, 2012 at 12:52 pm | #

I never tire of seeing the “TRUST” piece. Just wonderful Nat!
I like to use embossing paste with some ink in it to get rough texture with a stencil.

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- nathalie-kalbach
  
  November 5, 2012 at 8:01 pm | #
  
  oh yummie one Sue!!!
  
  Reply
Toñy Hernandez Ramos

November 5, 2012 at 12:17 pm | #

Nat todas las técnicas utilizadas me parecen geniales. Muchisimas gracias por mostrar tus creaciones. Un abrazo

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- nathalie-kalbach
  
  November 5, 2012 at 8:02 pm | #
  
  grande besos Tony! Thank you!
  
  Reply

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Photos are like a Rube Goldberg Machine or…Timeless Colors

For me some photos are activating memories like a Rube Goldberg Machine (auf Deutsch auch als Was-Dann-Maschine bekannt). I love this!

For example this photo of my cousin Isa and me in Italy shows a scene that I not remember. But it starts pulling up all kinds of fun memories.

Like the dress I was wearing- I loved this dress.I remember I wanted to wear it every day. I also remember that I wanted to be as beautiful as Isa when I grew up and I thought she was REALLY old (LOL- she was like 17 I think on that photo). I also remember the house and the garden and the dog that my Aunt Antionetta and Uncle Giulio had. Which then again reminds me that the stupid dog bit me in the head when stupid me stuck my head into its dog house to check out the puppies. That actually reminds me that this is a good excuse for a lot of things, and I should use it more often. Which reminds me on the time when I burned my shoulder on Aunt Antionetta’s gas stove – how I managed that- no idea. But I remember that she put half a potatoe on my shoulder to heal it, which probably was a weird thing to do, but when I look at my shoulder there is no scar left. This then again reminds me that I could never say Zia Antionetta (Zia means Aunt in Italian) as a kid, so I said Zianetta – and that I actually believed that was her real name till I was 10 or so and then I got it. Remember, I got bitten in the head by a dog… things take a bit to sink in ;) This photo also makes me remember one of my comfy foods, as that is what we had sometimes along breakfast – fresh olive oil with fresh lemon juice on a self baked white bread with a little bit of salt. I kid you not, when I feel I need comfy food, that is what I eat. It reminds me on my cousins Franco and Alessandro and that Alessandro who was just a couple of years older than me was always way faster than me when we had to wash our hands before eating and that he locked the bathroom door . Which I found really unfair because I had to wait till he was done and was always late for the meals. Which reminds me that this is also the reason why I have a crooked several times broken and operated finger, because one day I was a bit faster and I squeezed in my little finger into the door angle, which he didn’t know and he locked the door, thinking I was yet again throwing a tantrum because I didn’t make it faster into the bathroom. Which reminds me this might be the reason why I love to have all doors in our apartment to be open ;) – It can go on and on….

And that is one of the reasons why I love to work with photos and take my time with all the techniques on the project…it let’s me dwell on the memories triggered by the photo while working on it.

The canvas was a workshop called Timeless Colors that I retired after spring.

Do you have Rube Goldberg Machine Photos too or is that just me because I got bitten by dog into my head when I was a child? ;)

Have a gorgeous day

Huge hugs

Nat

Comments (8)

Sue Clarke

November 5, 2012 at 2:45 am | #

So sweet and no, you’re not the only one.
So you liked to wear dresses even as a little girl.
PS: Never stick your head into a dog’s house (especially when she has recently given birth to puppies).

Reply
- nathalie-kalbach
  
  November 5, 2012 at 8:00 pm | #
  
  LOL- thanks for the reminder! BTW I hated dresses in my phase between cute Nat -and now Nat – called punky-tomboy nat phase ;)
  
  Reply
mjmarmo

November 4, 2012 at 3:38 am | #

Such a gorgeous background!

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Barbara

November 4, 2012 at 1:22 am | #

Reading your rememberances took me right with you, visiting your aunt and cousins as a little girl. Your words are so honest they make your memories glow. Thanks for taking us with you!

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louison2011

November 3, 2012 at 3:02 pm | #

Ta page est magnifique!!!!

Reply
- nathalie-kalbach
  
  November 5, 2012 at 8:01 pm | #
  
  Mercie :)
  
  Reply
Janet

November 3, 2012 at 2:09 pm | #

I read every word! Very entertaining! And it reminded me of my aunt jejy, I couldn’t say her name either! Great memories! Photos are great that way. Thanks for the reminder to use the old ones more often!

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Charlotte

November 3, 2012 at 10:29 am | #

That was so lovely to hear the chain of memories that the picture reminded you of. I get that quite a lot – you can’t remember the scene photo ever actually happening, but it must’ve done. Reflecting on all of those memories while working on the layout must be really nice. A really nice photo, and I love the layout and the colours. Great words as well. I think my project at home over Christmas is going to be to dig out some old photos :) Hugs x

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5. Stencils & Masks

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