Got Inspiration?

There are times where I find myself in a creative rut and can't seem to get my mojo going.  Sometimes I just can't get that creativity to flow or my motivation to kick in. Ever feel that way? I tend to feel a little lost with so many thoughts and ideas and can't seem to express it in the way I had imagined or sought out to do. After awhile, it can get a little discouraging as I'm wondering if I'll ever reach my true potential as an amazing artist. So instead of letting it get the best of me, there are some things that I turn to that not only gives me the motivation, but also provides me an opportunity to expand on my skills or learn something new, which I am always seeking to do.

Here are a few (more to share later) of many cool places on the web that I lurk to keep me on my toes and give me that lift of inspiration that I need to keep going.

Khristian A. Howell

Print + Pattern

Anahata Katkin

Paper Crave

Designing Moms

designworklife

Valentina Ramos

Jess Volinksi

Josephine Kimberling

Kellie Rae Roberts

Jessica Swift

Sometimes I also feel that taking up a pencil + paper to draw, sketch, or doodle is what really helps me get back to focusing on what led me here in the first place. As a child, this is what I spent a lot of my time doing and to this day, I still feel this unexplainable joy inside when I can freely express myself on paper. Other things I love to do aside from designing on the computer is to knit, crochet, and make handmade cards. Those I hope to share with you on another occasion.:)

Before I go, here is a peek at some of the drawings that I've done. I'm a bit on the rusty side since it's been awhile, but it sure felt good to draw by hand again. I'm sure you'll be seeing some of them in digital format in the future and maybe one day become something more than just a drawing. WE shall SEE....

So, one thing I learned is to never give up when it seems like all of the sudden your inner artist has decided to take a break. Sometimes a break is what you need to renew your creativity (thank you for that reminder Khristian) and you'll be surprised at how it can take your ideas and motivation to another level. Doing something different like reading a book, a magazine, a new or long lost craft project, or even just doing nothing can recharge your creativity and bring you back on track. :)

Thanks for stopping by!

xoxo,

Dahlia

Fun With Photos | HIPSTAMATIC

I recently discovered this app for my iPhone that I am absolutely in love with. I normally don't find myself spending too much on apps, but I think that HIPSTAMATIC is worth a small investment for someone who loves to take pictures and loves the look of photos taken with an analog camera or that added depth of textures and color. The app comes with a basic set of film, lens, and flash components. I still have yet to purchase the additional bundle sets that give you different effects. So far, I have been loving the outcome of the photos that I've taken and would like to share it with you!

Pretty cool, eh? The one other thing that's cool about it besides the unique, artistic, effects that it renders, is the ability to modify its setting to save each photo as a high-quality print which I plan to test out and print a few. So, be on the look out for my reviews!

Thanks for looking!

xoxo,
Dahlia