Beyond Yarn and Brushes: Why Discord is the Perfect Hub for Your FiberArts & Arts Community

by | Feb 21, 2024 | 0 comments

Imagine a vibrant online space where creativity flows freely, inspiration sparks with every message, and collaboration thrives regardless of location. This isn’t a fantasy – it’s the reality offered by Discord, the rising star of online communities. But why is Discord the perfect platform for fiberartists, visual artists, and anyone passionate about the arts? Buckle up, because we’re about to unravel the threads that make Discord stand out:

1. Stitch Together a Global Community: Forget geographical limitations! Discord transcends borders, connecting fiber artists and art enthusiasts from across the globe. Imagine sharing project tips with a fellow knitter in Australia, discussing color palettes with a painter in Italy, or brainstorming ideas with a sculptor in Brazil – all in real-time!

2. Beyond Text: A Tapestry of Expression: Discord isn’t just about typed words. Share your latest masterpiece as a high-resolution image, showcase your intricate crochet project in a video, or even livestream your painting process, offering a glimpse into your creative journey. Visual inspiration abounds!

3. Channels: Organized Threads of Conversation: Gone are the days of information overload. Discord’s channel system lets you create dedicated spaces for specific topics, techniques, or even different art forms. Need help with a tricky crochet stitch? Join the #crochet-help channel. Feeling inspired by a specific artist? Dive into the #artist-spotlight channel.

4. Voice Chat: The Cozy Craft Corner: Craving the camaraderie of an in-person craft group? Discord’s voice chat feature brings the warmth of real-time conversation online. Hop on a voice channel, discuss your latest projects, offer feedback, and share laughter – all without leaving your craft room.

5. Events & Workshops: Unfurl a World of Learning: Organize online workshops, host live Q&A sessions with guest artists, or even schedule virtual critique sessions. Discord’s event features and screen-sharing capabilities make it the perfect platform to elevate your community’s learning experience.

6. Bots: The Helpful Hands in Your Online Studio: Imagine having a tireless assistant who can schedule events, remind you of deadlines, or even play relaxing music while you work. Discord bots can do all that and more, adding a layer of automation and convenience to your community.

7. A Canvas for Self-Expression: Personalize your Discord experience! Choose a server icon that reflects you and even create unique emojis to add a touch of fun and personality.

Discord is more than just a chat platform; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of shared passion, connection, and creativity. So, gather your fellow artists, grab your virtual needles and brushes, and step into the world of Discord – add me, Artemisnorth, as a friend and visit my server, it’s time to weave something truly extraordinary!

Not sure how to get started on Discord? I’ve got you covered! Check out my upcoming series:  “Beginner’s Guide to Using Discord”, specifically tailored for the total Newbie.

Creative Journey – 01 – Creating with Atticus

by | Feb 12, 2024 | 2 comments

Join me, Artemisnorth and my inquisitive grandson, Atticus, on a playful exploration of the world of LEGO! In this episode, Atticus, a dedicated LEGO builder, shares his passion for clicking bricks and dreams of becoming a LEGO set designer. Together, we delve into the creative process behind iconic LEGO sets, uncovering the magic that transforms tiny bricks into imaginative worlds. Packed with heartwarming moments and insightful perspectives, this episode is perfect for LEGO enthusiasts of all ages. Listen in as Atticus’ passion for building ignites imaginations and paves the way for future dreamers!

Podcast: Download (Duration: 23:08 — 22.8MB) | Embed

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This is where we dive into how our toughest times shape the art we create. We’re talking real talk about the ups and downs of creativity, inspired by our own struggles and triumphs.

Whether you’re looking for inspiration or just curious about the creative process, you’re in the right spot. Let’s explore together how every challenge can spark something amazing.

Grab a cozy seat, and let’s get started!

A Fellow Knitter’s Magic: How This Embroidered Shawl Sparked My Creativity

by | Feb 10, 2024 | 6 comments

Hey yarn friends!

Ever find yourself scrolling social media, and BAM! Inspiration smacks you upside the head like a rogue ball of yarn (thankfully, way less painful)? That’s exactly what happened to me today. I was browsing the “Textile Fine Art Facebook Group” (a treasure trove of fibery goodness, I might add!), when I stumbled upon a knit shawl that stopped me cold.

This wasn’t your average garter-stitch rectangle, folks. Oh no! This was a masterpiece of texture and colour, meticulously embroidered with tiny beads and thread, transforming the knitted canvas into a breathtaking meadow teeming with life.

The artist, Sue Brown, (Facebook page: Botanical Knitting by Sue) described her piece as an attempt to capture the “micro world of moss and moss plants.” And capture it she did! Each stitch morphed into a miniature mossy hillock, adorned with glistening dewdrops (those beads, people, genius!).

But what truly blew me away was the reaction of the community. Not a single negative comment – just an outpouring of appreciation, amazement, and inspiration. Comments like “This makes me want to burst into tiny flower petals of joy!” and “It is works like these… that are cherished in museums” spoke volumes about the supportive and encouraging spirit of fiberartists.

Sue’s shawl, born from curiosity and a willingness to push boundaries, reminded me of something I’ve dreamt of for years: bringing the natural world I cherish – rolling hills, views from my kayak, vibrant wildflowers – to life through yarn and needles. Sure, I’ve knit scarves and hats, but capturing the intricate details of nature seemed daunting. Yet, seeing Sue’s work lit a fire in my soul. If she could create a miniature moss garden, why couldn’t I stitch a sun-dappled forest or a river’s edge?

So, thank you, Sue, for the inspiration and the reminder that anything is possible with a little yarn, a lot of imagination, and a supportive community of fellow yarn enthusiasts. Now, excuse me while I go dig through my stash and dream up my own little piece of textile nature!

Until next time friends…

Creative Journey – 00- Intro

by | Feb 5, 2024 | 0 comments

Hi! Welcome to the Creative Journey Podcast. I’m your host, Artemisnorth.

This is a space for artists, fiberartists, creators, makers, however you care to define yourself. When I was in High School my art teacher, Mr. Banting taught me about perspective and colour theory. He also imparted some valuable life lessons that I still draw on today. One of those lessons was this:

You don’t need other people to call you an artist for you to be an artist. You simply are!

Please enjoy this intro:

Podcast: Download (Duration: 1:20 — 4.1MB) | Embed

Subscribe to Creative Journey RSS

This is where we dive into how our toughest times shape the art we create. We’re talking real talk about the ups and downs of creativity, inspired by our own struggles and triumphs.

Whether you’re looking for inspiration or just curious about the creative process, you’re in the right spot. Let’s explore together how every challenge can spark something amazing.

Grab a cozy seat, and let’s get started!

Knitting Through Darkness: My Journey of Hope

by | Jan 20, 2024 | 0 comments

The past week has been quite challenging for me. I’ve been struggling with feelings of profound sadness, akin to a heavy darkness that stubbornly lingers in the depths of my soul. I’ve been battling what feels like the most intense depression I’ve ever experienced. It’s been tough, but I’m gradually starting to feel a bit more hopeful, like I can almost catch a glimpse of brighter days ahead.

I decided to take a break today from rebuilding my blog. Instead, I chose to relax and focus on knitting socks for my grandson, whose birthday is just around the corner. Although I made some progress, I wasn’t really in the right headspace. However, a few hours spent video chatting with a close friend turned out to be incredibly uplifting. We shared our frustrations about life and dove into an array of odd and interesting topics – the kind of conversation that’s truly therapeutic.

For dinner, I had a simple salad but found it hard to focus on anything. Thankfully, I found a delightful distraction in TikTok. Despite mixed opinions about the platform, I personally find it captivating. It suits my A.D.D. mind perfectly, offering a diverse mix of content that’s endlessly entertaining. While scrolling, I came across a woman demonstrating how to crochet Irish Lace, and it was love at first sight. I was eager to see what else she had to share.

And then, it hit me when I heard her say, “Tell Your Story…..” It resonated with me deeply. She’s definitely someone I feel a connection with.

@rebekahhaascrochet

#rebekahhaascrochet #mentalhealth #crocheting #crochetersoftiktok #artist #adhd #yarn #crochet #anxious #tellyourstory

♬ Meadow – Adrian Berenguer

I hope you go and show her some love. She’s lovely and so skilled. Maybe she will inspire you to tell your story.

Until next time friends…

A Healthy, Healing Garlic Broth – Recipe

by | Jan 18, 2024 | 0 comments

This year started out rough, (not self-induced…LOL!) Again with the fever, etc…! So I dragged my butt into the kitchen and made Garlic Broth. This humble broth is as frugal as it is simple to make and the health benefits are worth the effort.

Garlic Broth has become the star of my kitchen. Its uses are endless. Use it in recipes instead of chicken or beef broth. When you’re tight on time you throw in some fresh pasta, lentils or black beans, greens, seasonings and a splash of lemon. It’s a hearty meal on the run. Gravy made with garlic broth is amazing! It’s uses are only limited by your imagination so have fun with it.

My husband loves Mac and Cheese night and it’s healthy-ish… I replace half of the pasta with cauliflower or broccoli and to cut a little fat I replace half of the milk with Garlic Broth. It’s a beautiful flavor.

Let’s not forget the health benefits of garlic. When you add sage and ginger you easily create a healing broth. Nature’s antibiotics and tums rolled into a hot mug of delicious liquid.

Okay, enough gushing, here’s the recipe:

Healing Garlic Broth

This garlic broth recipe is a simple yet flavorful concoction, made by simmering whole and sliced garlic cloves in a rich broth, infused with the aromatic touch of fresh sage leaves. Perfect for sipping on its own or as a base for other dishes, this broth offers a comforting and healing experience with every spoonful.
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Servings 1.5 Quarts

Ingredients
  

  • 2 heads garlic
  • 1 or 2 stalks fresh herbs of your choice (I love sage)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 quarts water

Instructions
 

  • Pull apart, peel and smash one full head of garlic. Heat the olive oil in a large pot on medium. When it sizzles add the garlic and cook until golden brown, about 10 minutes.
  • Cut the second head of garlic in half width wise so that you have cut each clove in half. Add the water, garlic (skins and all) and herbs to the pot and bring it to a boil. Turn it down and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 45 minutes or until it has reduced in volume by about 25%.
  • Strain through a fine sieve and glory at it's wonder.

Notes

You may have noticed my recipe doesn't call for salt. My reason behind this is that you don't always use the same amount of salt in dishes so I like to adjust it when I use it.

There you have it. Use it right away, keep it in your fridge, can it or freeze it. Whichever method suits you.

Tip: If you are short on room in your fridge, freeze the broth in ice cube trays. When they are frozen store them in zip-lock bags in your freezer but use them up within a couple of weeks to avoid freezer burn.

I love keeping this broth having this broth on hand. It not only adds wonderful flavour to dishes but it’s also perfect for colds and flu.

Until next time friends…