Beautiful Barberton

Barberton, Ohio, is the city in which I live and work.  When I moved back here I could not have imagined that I would be here 12 years later.  Barberton is a one of a kind place.  It's called the Magic City, because it grew up overnight.  Since then the magic has come and gone and returned in so many different ways.  There is a stunning lake in the middle of town, Lake Anna.  And there is an adorable little downtown with unique small businesses.  I have so many amazing childhood memories of huge parades and stunning fireworks.  Now I see a gem with a bit of tarnish, and I want to share the treasure that I see in Barberton with others.

I decided to do a series of art, titled Beautiful Barberton.  I will be working throughout the year to highlight some of my favorite bits with my own creative twist.  Here is the beginning of the Beautiful Barberton Series:

Cherry Blossoms
11 x 14, Acrylic and marker on canvas
I needed a starting place to overcome the fear of starting, so I began with one of my favorite Barberton bits--when the cherry blossoms are out all around the lake.

OC Barber Dressed For Winter
11 x 14, Acrylic and marker on canvas
I have always admired this sculpture by Virgil Villers, and it especially made me smile when he wore a scarf the past couple winters.  This year he is a little chillier.

Winter Sunrise Over Lake Anna
11 x 14, Acrylic and marker on canvas
This is a view I have encountered a number of times in the past couple months.  I love the way the sunrise reflects on the snow and frozen lake.

What's grabbing your attention these days?  What are you creating?

Inspired by Words and Abstract Whimsy Offering

It is no surprise to anyone that knows me that I love quotations.  They have encouraged me in the dark moments of life.  They have inspired me to be a better version of myself.  They have empowered me to take difficult action.  Pretty powerful stuff I would say!  From this place quotes and powerful words have made their way into my art.  I have seen those words impact my clients so many times.

I have also enjoyed creating small alters or sacred spaces to keep my on the right track.  I am now creating these little alters that pack a big punch, and I'm making them available to you and everyone else you can use some empowerment, inspiration, and encouragement.  These are so potent that I'm inspired while I'm creating them!

Each little inspiration kit arrives with a wooden easel, led candle, 10 miniature abstract watercolor paintings with quotes, affirmations, power words, or scriptures, and an assortment of rocks and glass gems.  The standard inspiration kit with all of those treasures is $30.

A sample affirmation

An empowerment quote

Inspiration rising quote

Empowerment quote

Light themed set

Light themed set

Inspiration kit of power words in a gift basket, $42

Inspiration quotes kit gift basket, $42

Favorite Bible verses Inspiration Kit Gift Basket, $42

So you can purchase a kit with any of these themes.  They arrive in a clear bag tied with a decorative string.  The gift baskets are available as shown.  I also have loads of new greeting cards in my studio with a single inspirational quote card on the front, so you can share a morsel of inspiration with anyone.  Greeting cards are $4 each of 3/$10. {Email me if you see something you want but can't make it to the studio.}

I am delighted to create a customized Inspiration Kits with 10 quotes of your choice, $40 per kit.

Kits will be available at the next Fourth Friday, February 23, 5 - 9 p.m.  You can also email me to make an appointment to look around.

Handmade Valentine Love

Love Wins, 12 x 4 inches, $35

I have loved making Valentine's most of my life.  They have been mostly part of deep abiding friendship, rather than some sort of passionate love.  Now I'm lucky enough to make goodies for other people to share with their friends and loved ones!

If you're looking for something for this upcoming Valentine's Day or just to express a deep and abiding friendship, I have goodies for you.  {If you see something you like, email me, and we will make sure you get it.  I will also be in my studio Monday, 4 - 7:30 p.m. or make an appointment to meet me at a more convenient time.}

I have a variety of full size greeting cards with handmade paper hearts--$4 each or 3 for $10

I have small heart shaped handmade paper booklets--perfect for love letters or quotes--$7 each

I have several assembled pieces with handmade hearts that are matted and ready for an 8x10 frame--$15 each

I have small abstract watercolor pieces, 3 x 4 inches, that allow you to add your own message or quote on the back.  They're like the old school kid valentines in a grown up form--package of 9 for $6

Wishing you days and weeks ahead filled with warmth, friendship, and love.
{Let me know if any of these will help you celebrate!}

Inspiration Market

I am delighted and filled with anticipation as I prepare for the Inspiration Market that is coming up THIS Sunday, January 28! Here is the scoop about this unique event. . .

What is the Inspiration Market?
The Inspiration Market is an event I created to share my artistic and creative process with people who are curious about what I do.  It's a great chance to put some color and energy back into your life and get out of the house.  Forget it's winter in Ohio for just a few hours!

What will we do?
You will have a front row seat to see some of the newest creations I've made.  You will have time to make a bit of inspiration for yourself or someone else.  There will be tea and cocoa.  If you see something you love you will have time to shop.  You will also learn about creative offerings of workshops and classes that will be held over the next few months.  The afternoon will wrap up with a yoga nidra for anyone who wants to participate.

What does it cost?
It's FREE!  I want to share what I'm doing with as many people as possible this year.  I want to offer you the opportunity to create and inspire along side me.  I want you to experience how amazing it feels to create and be within a group!

Who should attend?
You!  And bring a friend or two.  If you have been a loyal supporter, this is a little way for me to say thank you.  If you're looking to add some more creativity, whimsy, or inspiration to your life--this is for you.  If we have never met, but your just curious about art or art in Barberton or living a creative life, please join us.

What is yoga nidra?
It's a form of deep relaxation.  Some people call it yogic sleep because it is so refreshing and restorative.  We will warm up and breathe together for a few minutes, and then participants lie down on a yoga mat, get comfy, and listen as I guide your attention around to different points on your body.  You simply lie on the mat and relax.  If you have a yoga mat, blanket, and small pillow, bring them.  I also have yoga mats to share.

If you have more questions, email me:  braveteachermim@gmail.com
I can't wait to see you at the Inspiration Market

Intuitive Painting Mini Retreat

I had a great time today at an intuitive painting workshop!  I got to bring a bit of yoga, but I also got to enjoy being guided by another artist's process.  You can learn more about the experience HERE.  I love making art and sharing art!

Stuff I Made Week 1 of 2018

I decided that this year I'm going to see how much I can make with the materials I already posses.  I also thought this super cold week was a great time to make some Valentine themed creations.  I haven't made any handmade paper for about three months, so that was my medium of choice.

All of these items are completed and available for purchase!  Give one of a kind cards and artsy gifts to your friends and sweeties.  Shop local small business to keep your money in the community and support working artists!

A whole collection of handmade paper!
Greeting cards, little watercolor valentines, love letter books, and matted pieces

Four matted pieces of handmade paper assemblage.  $15 each

Greeting cards $4 or 3/$10

If you saw something that is perfect for you or someone else, send me an email, BraveTeacherMim@gmail.com , and we will arrange to get it to you.

Sending you some handmade love and friendship!

Big Birthday Blowout Sale

It's my birthday week!
I love to do 2 things for my birthday:

1.  Reflect on the twists and turns my life has taken.
2.  Give other people stuff

So for the reflective piece I'm really focusing in on how I'm a great cheerleader and advocate for others but not so much for myself.  {That's a tough one to dig into.}  I'm ready for that to change so that I can experience abundance as an artist and teacher and coach--as well as a woman, mom, yogi, human, et al.

Abundance is my word for the year!  It means lots of difference stuff for me, but I'll save that for another day.

I LOVE TO GIVE TO OTHERS AS A GIFT TO MYSELF!  I've given away a wide variety of goodie bags and treats to adults and kids on my birthday over the years. 

This year I'm giving a great discount at my etsy shop, Brave Inspiration, on all the prints.  The sale is 20% off all prints!  If you've had your eye on something, or you can use a boost, this is the week to shop away.  The sale begins Jan. 10, and it ends Jan. 17.

If you're local email me your order, and I'll deliver to you to avoid the shipping charge!

Visit Brave Inspiration Etsy Shop now!