♦ Art Appreciation Monday! ♦

Hello and welcome to another Art Appreciation Monday!

I hope all of you had a lovely holiday weekend! For this Monday I have been very fortunate in interviewing the remarkably talented costume designer and seamstress behind Olivanders Creations! Olivia not only designs costumes that she dreams up, she also makes replicas of film costumes! 

I have always been amazed at the amount of work that goes into sewing a dress. Can you imagine the work in a dress like this? This black and white masquerade dress with hand made silk roses is an original design by Olivia and gives only a glimpse into the talent in this amazing designer's mind. 

Ariana: What's your name? 

Olivia: Olivia

Ariana: What Country/Planet/State are you from? 

Olivia: Kentucky, but I'm pretty sure it was the result of a stork with a broken GPS. 

Ariana: Do you have brothers/sisters/only child?

Olivia: 5 sisters. No brothers. #4 out of 6...I suffer from severe middle-child syndrome. 

Ariana: Do you have any pets? 

Olivia: 3 precious kitties, 2 stinky dogs, 1 fluffy Tribble (angora dwarf rabbit), and a random assortment of fish.

Ariana: What is your favourite colour? 

Olivia: Depends on what it's going to be on and if glitter is involved. 

Ariana: Favourite movie? 

Olivia: Depends on my mood, but usually the Little Mermaid.

Ariana: Favourite song? 

Olivia: Depends on my mood and how close the deadline of a project is.

Ariana: Favourite book? 

Olivia: Catherine Called Birdy by Karen Cushman

Ariana: Currently reading?

Olivia: The script for Into the Woods

Ariana: Guilty pleasures? 

Olivia: Hah! Way too many to list. 

Ariana: Do you have a favourite food/drink? 

Olivia: Depends on my mood. 

Ariana: Birthday?

Olivia: Cake.

Olivia creates costumes for theatre plays like this production of Les Misérables. Each character must be unique and different as well as still being accurate to the historical period of time! She has done numerous productions including: How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Treasure Island, Charlotte's Web, The Hobbit, 101 Dalmations, A Christmas Carol,(which was completed in under three weeks), High School Musical, You're A Good Man Charlie Brown and this spring she is making the costumes for Into the Woods!

Ariana: What inspires you most to create such lovely sewn masterpieces? 

Olivia: Usually the design itself. If the design of a garment or project doesn't get me excited, I struggle to make it work.

Ariana: How do you cope with lack of inspiration? 

Olivia: It depends on the situation. Caffeine helps when I'm struggling to push through a project and music or talking things through with the kitties or the hubby helps when I'm struggling with a design issue. 

Ariana: Are you open to commissions? 

Olivia:Yes. Check out www.olivanderscreations.com

Ariana: Is there anything you would not want as a commission? 

Olivia: I don't have the skills required for spandex or latex fitted bodysuits. My talents lie with the fluffy and fabulous. 

Ariana: What would you say, is one of your favorite fashions to create? 

Olivia: BIG AND FLUFFY! Oh, and SPARKLY!

Ariana: Best fabric to work with? 

Olivia: Silk Shantung 

Ariana: Worst fabric to work with? 

Olivia: Ugh...Linen or Organza...

Ariana: Of all your masterpieces so far, is there one that sticks out to you- as a favourite? 

Olivia: My Giselle Wedding Dress from Enchanted. That dress involved a ton of research and hand-painting and I couldn't be more proud of how it turned out. 

Ariana: What would you suggest for someone who is just beginning to sew, or embark in the world of art in general? 

Olivia: Find something that inspires you. You can tackle "easy" projects, but if you're not excited about them, then you'll struggle with the learning process because you don't want the end result as bad.

Ariana: Are there any blogs, or books that you would recommend to other artists out there? 

Olivia: It would really differentiate based on your medium.  

Ariana: What is something that you haven't created yet, that you really want to? 

Olivia: Oh, *tons* of stuff. Costumes, paintings, drawings, shoes, home projects....you name it. 

Ariana: What is your favorite thing to sew?

Olivia: Skirts. Especially skirts with ruffles. 

Ariana: When did you decide you wanted to start sewing such beautiful creations? 

Olivia: I was 13 and was inspired by the Lord of the Rings movies because I wanted those dresses for myself. 

Ariana: Do you have any interests outside of sewing? 

Olivia: I dabble in anything that perks my interest. 

Ariana: Roughly, how long does it take you to sew something, start to finish? 

Olivia: THAT depends on the project. 

Ariana: How do you wind down after a day of sewing? 

Olivia: Usually, I  pass out from exhaustion. Creating art, with any medium, is a physically and emotionally exhausting process. 

Ariana: What are you currently working on at the moment? 

Olivia: Wardrobe for the entire cast of the Bowling Green High School Production of Into the Woods

Ariana: What would your advice to other artists be? 

Olivia: Don't let self-doubt or negativity bring you down. Surround yourself with loving and supporting people and create what you feel. 

Olivia's pride and joy, Giselle's Wedding dress from Disney's Enchanted! This gown was completely hand-painted, which requires a lot of patience and practice! This dress is so gorgeous with the front ruffles and hand-painted details, the amount of time and work truly makes this dress something special! 

I would very much like to thank Olivia of Olivanders Creations for her participation in Art Appreciation Monday, I know this is a very busy time of year for her with the upcoming production of Into The Woods, and I appreciate the time she took to share her wisdom with us on sewing and dreaming up her beautiful creations! 

I am always so blessed and excited that I have so many talented and unique artists who participate in Art Appreciation Monday and I hope you, the reader are enjoying Art Appreciation Monday as much as I am! :) 

Discover more about Olivanders Creations on the website!

Follow Olivanders Creations on Twitter!

Follow Olivanders Creations on Facebook!

Follow Olivanders Creations on Pinterest and Instagram too!

Check Ebay and Etsy for listings from Olivanders Creations!  

*****All the pictures belong to Olivanders Creations!!!! 

There are links in blue which will direct you to the originals/and/webpages.**********

DO NOT USE ANY OF THE PICTURES/or/WRITTEN WORK POSTED HERE WITHOUT PERMISSION!!!!!!! 

If you wish to contact Olivanders Creations please click here.

♦ Art Appreciation Monday! ♦

Hello and welcome to the wonderful, beautiful month of February! ♥

I hope you are all having a lovely start to the month so far, and it is impossible to contain my excitement for my special guest for today's Art Appreciation Monday!

A soprano singer who is rising in the spotlight both on stage and television, with a clear and lovely voice... I present to you the talented actress and soprano singer Emily Klassen!

Emily Klassen behind the scenes on the set of NBC's Hannibal, where she performed an excerpt of "Piangerò la sorte mia." in the episode "Sorbet".  Her voice has a very clear and light angelic sound, and in this scene from the series you could understand the passion she feels for her music in every word she sings.

Ariana: What's your name?
Emily: Emily Klassen

Ariana: What Country/Planet/State are you from?
Emily: Calgary, Alberta, Canada. I now live in Toronto, Ontario.

Ariana: Do you have brothers/sisters/only child?
Emily: I do.  A brother and a sister, both older.  My sister is my best friend.

Ariana: Do you have any pets?
Emily: A gorgeous little black cat named Jet.

Ariana: What is your favourite colour?
Emily: Well, I wear a lot of black so I guess that is my default colour.

Ariana: Favourite movie?
Emily: I don’t know where to begin!  I am a huge fan of ghost stories.  Some of my favourite movies include the original Woman in Black, El Orfanato, The Innocents, The Others. I’m also a fan of movies about music, of course.  The Red Violin is high on my list.

Ariana: Favourite song?
Emily: I can’t even begin to try to answer that one!

Ariana: Favourite book?
Emily: Also difficult.  I am an avid reader.  I am particularly interested in Victorian Gothic short stories; MR James, Sheridan Le Fanu, Rudyard Kipling, Edith Wharton etc.  That said, my two favourite novels at this point are Somerset Maugham’s The Razor’s Edge and A.S. Byatt’s Possession.

Ariana: Currently reading?
Emily: The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton.  I am loving it so far.

Ariana: Do you have a favourite food/drink?
Emily: I love an Old Fashioned or a Sazerac.  Classic cocktails are my go-to drink.

Ariana: Guilty pleasures?
Emily: Being a singer, I don’t smoke, but on rare occasions I really like a good cigar with a glass of Bourbon. I probably shouldn’t be admitting this.

Ariana: Birthday?
Emily: November 21st.

L'elisir d'amore or The Elixir of Love, a comedic opera which Emily Klassen performed as Adina who is loved by Nemorino (a poor peasant), however, Adina does not share his feelings. Upon hearing Adina reading aloud the tale of Tristan and Isolde, he sets out to find the magic potion that will get him Adina's love. Although, I sadly admit I have not gotten to see Emily Klassen perform live, from the shows I have watched  I have been amazed by her remarkable talent. In this photo, the intensity of emotion and feeling is remarkable!

Ariana: What inspires you most to sing?

Emily: Since I can remember, I have been fascinated by tunes and musical patterns - I was always trying to understand these patterns and replicate them. I guess my brain is just programmed for it. There is nothing like the experience of singing with every cell in your body and it’s an honour to be given the opportunity. I feel a great responsibility to the composer and to the audience to convey the intention of the work to the best of my ability.

Ariana: How do you cope with lack of inspiration?

Emily: I shouldn't drink caffeine because it is supposed to dry out you; but when I need a little kick, I’ll often grab a soy latte on my way to a rehearsal. I find the jolt of caffeine sharpens my brain and the soy milk coats my throat if I am feeling a little rough. This might be entirely psychological but we all have our little crutches!


Ariana: Do you ever get nervous before performing anywhere?

Emily: Of course I get nervous! I’ll have some jitters right before I perform but usually I am okay with that kind of nervousness. I can let go and be in the moment, allowing the performance to unfold as it will because really it’s too late to change anything by that point - you might as well go with it and enjoy it! My real nerves kick in a couple of weeks before the first rehearsal while I am still learning the music and getting it in my body. I worry that I won’t know it well enough when the time comes or that I’ll never figure out how to navigate a particularly difficult passage. That’s when I get nervous, the time during the process where I still don’t feel confident I know what I am doing.

Ariana: How do you handle your jitters, and is there anything that might be helpful to young singers/performers to overcome their fear of performing publicly?

Emily: The most important thing is preparation. If you aren't prepared for whatever reason, the nerves can overtake you. I hate that kind of experience so I try to avoid it at all costs. If you have prepared to the best of your ability there is nothing more you can do -, there is a freedom in letting go and trusting in your work but you have to put the work in beforehand.

I also meditate, do yoga, go for runs, find a quiet spot to go through the material. Whatever I can do to still my mind and be engaged in the moment.


Ariana: You have performed in some amazing places; as well as some great operas…do you have a favourite character or performance?

Emily: This past August I got to perform the role of Dafne in Cavalli’s “Gli amori d’Apollo et di Dafne” (The Loves of Apollo and Daphne) in Venice. It was extraordinary to sing this beautiful work in a space even older than opera itself.

Ariana: What would you suggest for someone who is just beginning with singing?

Emily: The most important piece of advice I can offer is to strive to be the kind of person you would want to work with. Be professional, courteous, and generous to your colleagues. Outside of working on your craft, this is the most important thing you can do. The music community is surprisingly small and you will bump into the same people over and over again for years. Every job you do, no matter how seemingly insignificant, is a step farther on your path, another opportunity to build your reputation and establish yourself. If you are flaky or unprepared, or you are snarky to your colleagues, people just won’t hire you again. By the same token, if people like you and trust you, they’ll bring you back and tell their peers about you too. That’s how you build a career.


Ariana: You have gotten to perform in some great television series like the Murdoch Mysteries and more recently the NBC series Hannibal, is the transition from the stage to camera very difficult?

Emily: It is. In opera, your gestures and your expressions are so much bigger. They have to carry over an orchestra and to the back of the hall. On screen your intentions must be more subtle. It is a skill to be able to sense the space you are playing in and to adjust accordingly.

Ariana: Do you prefer one to the other, are there drawbacks or strong points for either that you can think of?

Emily: I am a singer first, in my mind, but I love to do both. I relish the experience of embodying another person and engaging in the telling of a story with other people. In that sense, they are very similar.

Ariana: What is something that you haven't gotten to do yet, but really want to do someday?

Emily: I really want to be in a film about opera. It was such an honour to have so many people contact me about my performance on Hannibal - people who had never listened to classical music before. I was deeply touched and humbled by that. Seeing it on a television series brought opera into people’s homes. You really don’t need an education in classical music to enjoy it. Just sit back and allow it to wash over you. Yes, there is a ‘scholarly’ aspect to classical music but that’s not its purpose. People wrote music to share their stories, their emotions with other people. I worry that audiences are turned off by the idea that somehow this music is not accessible to them. This is why I would love to be in a film about it - to share it. Put it in a human context. Tell a story.

Ariana: Is there anything you would go back and change in your musical career?

Emily: I try not to think about changing the past - we can all think of moments when maybe a different choice would have led to a better outcome - but really, everything I've done has led me to this point and I am happy to be here.

Ariana: When did you decide you wanted to sing?

Emily: I’ve been singing since I can remember. It has been a natural progression for me to keep doing it for as long as I could. My father is a wonderful singer and he used to teach me folk songs when I was a child. We would sing in the car, out camping, for friends when they came over - I was always singing. My mother put me in a choir when I was 8 years old and the conductor of that choir suggested I was good enough to study privately. I started studying classical music when I was 14 years old.

Ariana: Do you have a favorite song to sing?

Emily: Oh, that changes with the season! It’s thrilling to fall in love with a new discovery. I have a few Spanish pieces I’ve uncovered that I am loving right now. My go-to aria is still probably Handel’s “Piangerò la sorte mia”. I suggested it for Hannibal because it was my favourite thing to sing at the time and I thought it would fit with the aesthetic they were going for.

Ariana: Do you have any interests outside of music?

Emily: Cooking and baking. Anything Halloween related. Good books. Travel. History. Meandering walks in whatever city I’m in. I am a natural at getting horrendously lost - so as a consequence I love exploring new places.

Ariana: What would you be doing now, if you hadn't pursued music?

Emily: Perhaps I’d be a dancer, if I had the talent for it. I would love to experience music the way a dancer does.

Ariana: How do you wind down after a day of singing?

Emily: Probably the same way most people do; I watch my shows on the couch with a nice glass of wine in my pjs.

Ariana: Do you have any upcoming performances?

Emily: I have several shows coming up. Check my website for my performances.

www.emilyklassen.com


Ariana: What would your advice to other artists/actors and singers /musicians be?

Emily: Stay focused on your own path and don’t be distracted by what everyone around you is doing. Being envious of others is a waste of time and emotion. Lord knows we all experience it but it doesn’t do a single thing to help you. Also you can never know what people you perceive as successful might be struggling with themselves. We are all just doing the best we can with where we are.

Give genuine compliments to your peers and see how much lighter you feel. I don’t believe there is a limited amount of success in the world. I think the opposite is true. More people out in the world sharing the thing you love means there is a foundation to build on, for you and for everyone else.

Also, it’s worth saying that if it doesn’t make you happy any more it’s okay to let go of it. It’s not a failure to realize a life as an artist might not be what you’d hoped. Any creative pursuit enriches your life, deepens your understanding of other people and broadens your perspective of the world. You can take these insights with you on whatever path you choose.

 Emily Klassen as Dafne in “Gli amori d’Apollo et di Dafne” (The Loves of Apollo and Daphne), an opera that is based on the god Apollo's love for a nymph Dafne. For this opera Emily Klassen performed in Venice, Italy! 

I encourage you to go and like her page on Facebook!

You can also go and see when and where she will be performing as well as her biography, and pictures from past performances on her website!

You can also follow this talented lady on Twitter too! 

Thank you Emily Klassen, for taking the time to answer each of my questions with such kind and thoughtful answers! It's always such an inspiration to learn about what each artist does and how they feel. Also sharing their advice which is so incredibly helpful to both seasoned artists and beginners as well! I appreciate her being a part of Art Appreciation Monday, and for sharing her knowledge on her art and profession! Again and again I am inspired by the artists I feature on here, and I am again inspired by Emily Klassen. 

Thank you for taking part of Art Appreciation Monday! ♥

*****All the pictures/videos/music belongs to Emily Klassen!!!! 

There are links in blue which will direct you to 

the originals/and/webpages.**********

DO NOT USE ANY OF THE PICTURES/or/WRITTEN WORK 

POSTED HERE WITHOUT PERMISSION!!!!!!! 

If you wish to contact Emily Klassen please click here.

Recipe Review: Double Chocolate Muffins

I joined Pinterest back in.......

 Whenever....I joined Pinterest. 

Anyhoo, I was really excited because there are so many unique things on Pinterest. Do it yourself projects, pictures, artwork, recipes, decorating tips, yummy recipes, health tips, fatty recipes, fashion for men and women, education, recipes that are drowning in butter, crafts for kids...have I MENTIONED THE RECIPES?!

Maybe Pinterest wasn't the best thing for me, because I love recipes, especially new recipes, and the worse the recipe sounds for you...the more I'll want to make it. 

So...what happens when you actually make a recipe from Pinterest? 

Well, I decided to make breakfast since my nephew was staying over, and what better than muffins. (Which are basically fairy cakes for breakfast!) 

The recipe I used was this one:  Double Chocolate Muffins

How did it come out? 

It didn't rise.

It wasn't the chocolate muffin I was looking forward to. It was brown.

It tasted brown.That's it. It tasted like, nothing, no flavour just brown. 

The chocolate chips were the only things that gave these ruddy things any flavour! 

On top of that they were a bit thick/heavy. 

 AFTER ALL I DID FOR THEM.

I stirred them, I gave them sugar, milk, and baking powder...and this- this is how they repay me. Their maker. I bet this is how GOD FEELS SOMETIMES!

Not the muffins I wanted.

♦ Art Appreciation Monday! ♦

Welcome to another Art Appreciation Monday!

This week's artist, whom I came across accidentally, but as Bob Ross would say, "It's a happy little accident." 

And coming across Maya Kern was a very, very happy accident! 

I am incredibly excited to feature her and her marvelous artwork and illustrations this week! 

Spring Girl

Although this was not the first illustration I saw by Maya Kern, I loved this one and I have to say, this one is my new favorite. Because it looks like a snow-globe, and it makes me think of winter, the cold silent days when you feel like you're all alone in the world. This picture is incredibly en-deering. :)

Ariana: What's your name? 

Maya: Maya Kern

Ariana: What Country/Planet/State are you from? 

Maya: I’m originally from Texas, currently living in Minnesota!

Ariana: Do you have brothers/sisters/only child?

Maya: I have two older brothers.

Ariana: Do you have any pets? 

Maya: I have an adorable tabby-calico mix named Ophelia.

Ariana: What is your favourite colour?

Maya: Depends on my mood!

Ariana: Favourite movie?

Maya: Paprika

Ariana: Favourite song? 

Maya: I like too much music to ever be able to choose.

Ariana: Favourite book?

Maya: Sunshine by Robin McKinley or the Abhorsen books by Garth Nix

Ariana: Currently reading? 

Maya: Currently, I am avidly awaiting the release of Clariel next month.

Ariana: Guilty pleasures? (special shirt, chocolates, coffee, tv show marathon, etc.)

Maya: Toddlers in Tiaras, Top Model, Dance Moms, stuff like that.

Ariana: Talking about munchies... do you have a favourite food/drink? 

Maya: It depends on my mood!  But I always love a really good sandwich, especially if it has avocado on it.

Ariana: Birthday?

Maya: March 28th.

 Pushing Daisies

This one is so cute, Maya Kern does an amazing job with couples, always seeing the beauty of love and adding it to the atmosphere of her artwork! ♥ I really liked this one, and while Maya Kern has created so many beautiful and adorable pictures of couples, I think it was the yellow daisies, and how pink this couples cheeks are that really appeals to me! 

Ariana: What inspires you most to create such amazing and adorable digital masterpieces?

Maya: I’ve always wanted to make things.  For my personal work and my comics, I’m always driven by the desire to create.  For my freelance work I am inspired by the desire to pay my bills.

Ariana: How long does it take you to create a masterpiece, start to finish? 

Maya: It depends.  A comic strip can take 1-5 hours, a full page 4-12 hours, an illustration typically takes 3-7 hours, a 22 page comic takes months.

Ariana: How do you cope with lack of inspiration? 

Maya: I remember that I need to pay rent.

Ariana: Are you open to commissions on your art? 

Maya: Yes, actually!  I just opened commissions recently. 

Ariana: What program are you currently using to create your artwork? 

Maya: Photoshop.

Ariana: Is the program your using fairly easy to use, would you recommend it to other artists out there?

Maya: It is what it is. There is definitely a learning curve with Photoshop, but that’s true of any medium, digital or otherwise.  I’d recommend it because it is industry standard, but honestly whatever works for you is fine.  Create in whatever medium works for you.

Ariana: What materials do you use to create your traditional art?

Maya: I have a bunch of Copic markers I bought like eight years ago and I use those alone with Tombows, colored pencils, watercolor, gel pen, my pentel pocket brush, and anything else I can get my hands on to do my sketchbook work.

Ariana: Of all your artwork so far, is there one piece that sticks out to you- as a favorite? 

Maya: I’m really fond of my short comics, especially Redden and How to Be a Mermaid.  They were such long projects and such a lot of work I can’t help but feel proud of myself.

Ariana: What would you suggest for someone who is just beginning with digital art, or art in general? 

Maya: Don’t give up.  Practice a lot.  Stay hungry, keep consuming, keep experimenting.  It’s fine to use tutorials and take tips from other artists, but never forget that ultimately you need to bend those practices to suit you.  Don’t take those tips as a one size fits all; what works for them won’t 100% work for you.

Ariana: Are there any blogs, or books that you would recommend to other artists out there? 

Maya: I always recommend Scott McCloud’s “Making Comics” to anyone interested in making comics.  “Perspective! For Comic Book Artists” and “Framed Ink” are also great.  And I am always a fan of James Gurney’s “Light and Color,” which taught me more about painting than any class I’ve ever taken.

Ariana: What is something that you haven't done in the world of art yet, but really want to someday? 

Maya: Some day I really want to use a laser cutter.  They create the most beautifully intricate cut paper work I’ve ever seen.

Ariana: What is your favorite thing to paint/draw? 

Maya: My favorite thing to draw is always cute girls.

Ariana: How would you describe your painting/drawing style?

Maya: Round, bright, colorful.

Ariana: I love how adorable your people come out, how do you keep your characters consistent and still looking adorable?

Maya: I draw based a lot on shapes, rounder shapes tend to have a softer/cuter look to them, maybe that is how?

Ariana: When did you decide you wanted to be an artist? 

Maya: I’ve been drawing ever since I could hold a pencil and I think everyone always assumed I would do art, but I didn’t actually consciously decide to go into art until junior year of high school.

Ariana: Do you have any interests outside of  art? 

Maya: Yes!  I love singing and writing music.  

♥ (You can listen to Maya's music here!) ♥

Ariana: How do you wind down after a day of drawing?

Maya: I usually end by curling up in bed with my cat.

Ariana: What are you currently working on at the moment? 

Maya: Right now I am working on my webcomic, Monster Pop!, and also on some freelance things.  I’m also currently writing a second comic, Blood Anchor, tho that’s a ways off from creation.

Ariana: What would your advice to other artists be? 

Maya: Never forget that your taste evolves ahead of your skill set.  We evolve with lots of work that results in sudden bursts of inspiration, which then level off into a plateau before we improve again.  When you become unsatisfied with your work, it’s a sign that your taste is evolving.  Being able to see problems with your own work is the first step to being able to improve it.  Don’t get discouraged.  Stay hungry.  Keep working.

Girls, Girls, Girls

I love how diverse Maya's drawings, comics and illustrations are. She has a great range of characters that are adorable, beautiful, charming, sweet and unique! Here you can get a glimpse of how skillful she is with creating each character as a separate and special individual. 

 Seasonal Fashion

The first piece of artwork I ever saw by Maya Kern, was Seasonal Fashion, and I have to say I instantly adored her artwork! ♥ Because of her charming drawing style, wit and hilarity! 

If you love Maya Kern's work, follow her on:

Twitter

Tumblr

Deviant Art

FaceBook

Support Maya, and purchase her awesome artwork through,

Maya Kern's Store!

Also, don't forget to go and listen to Maya sing, 

Maya Kern Music

And you can visit her website too, here!

I want to thank Maya Kern, so very, very much for agreeing to participate in Art Appreciation Monday! I am so honored when artists agree to answer questions and be highlighted on my blog! It means so much to me, and I hope, inspires new and seasoned artists alike. I have truly been inspired by the artists featured on here, and I have been again inspired by you. 

Thank you for joining us! :) 

*****All the artwork/pictures/videos/music belongs to Maya Kern!!!! 

There are links in blue which will direct you to 

the originals.**********

DO NOT USE ANY OF THE PICTURES/Illustrations/or/WRITTEN WORK 

POSTED HERE WITHOUT PERMISSION!!!!!!! 

If you wish to contact Maya Kern please click here.

 Not to mention she deserves many more followers so go follow her here.

♦ Art Appreciation Monday! ♦

Welcome to Art Appreciation Monday! 

We had the pleasure of seeing photography by Logan Houchens, last Art Appreciation Monday. 

This week, I am very honoured to be joined by a very talented actress! 

I've never had an actress before on Art Appreciation Monday, and I'm really excited to introduce the wonderfully talented actress... *drum-roll*!

Jacqueline King!

Actress Jacqueline King, has an astounding reputation with films such as Star Trek Into Darkness (2013), Hello Herman (2012), The Riverside Shuffle (2010), and recently portrayed Ariana (awesome name right?!) in The Exes episode, Prelude to a Kiss (2013).  Not only is Jacqueline King an amazing actress she advocates extremely green living and shares her healthy advice, and delicious recipes on her blog, Beverly Hills Farms!

Ariana: What's your name?
Jacqueline: Jacqueline king

 Ariana: Are you human/boy/girl?
Jacqueline:  Woman

Ariana: What Country/Planet/State are you from?
Jacqueline: California

Ariana: Do you have brothers/sisters/only child?
Jacqueline: I have one step-brother and one step sister

Ariana: Do you have any pets?
Jacqueline: Yes, a chihuahua named Lola and a bulldog named Shakespeare.

Ariana: What is your favourite colour?
Jacqueline: Periwinkle.

Ariana: Favourite movie?
Jacqueline: Sunset Blvd.

Ariana: Favourite song?
Jacqueline: I can't say that I have one favorite. It depends on my mood.

Ariana: Birthday?
Jacqueline: October 28th- Scorpio

Jacqueline King employs her amazing talents as an actress, she works to fit into each role with a natural ease and a clear mind- touching each part uniquely and individually, so that all of her characters are special. And they're truly given a special flair, by such an astounding actress!  

Ariana: What inspires you most to act?
Jacqueline: I love putting myself in other people's shoes. In getting to know my characters I get to know myself better and hopefully the same happens for the audience

Ariana: How do you cope with lack of inspiration?
Jacqueline: I do love good coffee but I don't think it helps with inspiration as much as stamina. When I'm preparing for an acting role if I get stuck the best thing is to go back to the text. When you read it triggers your imagination so I always feel like that's a good way in. When I'm working on a character I also like to think about what kind of music they like to listen to, what a normal day in their life would be like. How what is happening in the script is different. Scripts aren't written about average days. When I need a break or to change my mood yoga is always like hitting a reset button.

Ariana: Talking about munchies... do you have a favourite food/drink?
Jacqueline: My favorites would be truffles and champagne as special treats, Green smoothie and tofu are day to day favorites. Oh and even though I live in LA, I love both gluten and dairy. Love them.

Ariana: You have a lovely blog called Beverly Hills Farms, when did you decide to start raising your own garden?
Jacqueline: I started growing herbs and tomatoes on the patio when I lived in my old apartment mainly because I like to cook and it was nice to have them handy. When I moved to a house with a yard I figured "why not try to grow more?" so I did and was surprised how easy and rewarding it is.

Ariana: What started this idea of Beverly Hills Farms?
Jacqueline: I was really interested in the urban farming movement and I have always had friends tell me I should be a chef so I decided to start writing down my recipes and focus on cooking with fresh seasonal ingredients. I think eating healthy is really important as is the local and slow food movement, so I wanted to promote those ideas in a way that is fun and entertaining.

Ariana: You've got some amazing recipes on there, are these all your own original recipes or are they already existing recipes with your own modifications?
Jacqueline: They are for the most part my original recipes. Occasionally friends will give me recipes to share and I make a note of that when that is the case.

Ariana: What are some of your favourite things to grow in the garden?
Jacqueline: Tomatoes and lettuce.

Ariana: What you're doing is very important, to raise awareness of GMO and inspiring people to go out and work outside more and be part of the world. This isn't exactly what a lot of people would expect to find in Los Angeles- Are people ever surprised to discover you're as natural as you are?
Jacqueline: I don't think anyone who lives here would be surprised, but people from other places might have only seen the LA of the tabloids, movies and reality TV. This is another reason why I write my blog- to help dispel the myth that LA is full of only plastic people. There are so many wonderfully grounded, creative and spiritual people here. This city is an inspiration in itself.

Ariana: To return to acting... Acting can be very tiring, how do you manage to have energy afterwards to garden?
Jacqueline: Sometimes the garden gets unruly and things get overgrown, especially when I'm traveling, but its small enough that you can take an afternoon and get things back in good shape. We also have automated irrigation which really helps.

Ariana: Getting into character can be difficult, what is one of the hardest things for you to do on set? Jacqueline: Every day is a little different. Acting is a balance of staying relaxed and focused, and trusting the preparation you have done. Some days it's easier to find that balance than others.

Ariana: Of all the things you've done so far, what has been your favourite role so far?
Jacqueline:  I had a role in a small movie called "From Grace" the cast was amazing and we shot in a lovely little town called Idyllwild. I played a young woman with cancer so it was very challenging but I felt like I learned a lot about gratitude, the fragility of life as well as acting. So that was probably my favorite role. I had a very small role in Star Trek into Darkness but I got to work on that set for a month and again the cast was wonderful as was working with JJ Abrams. It was an incredible experience, a dream come true.

Ariana: What would you suggest for someone who is just beginning with acting?
Jacqueline: Learn your craft, take classes, do plays, read books but don't forget it's a business and you need to market yourself.
Ariana: When did you decide you wanted be an actress?
Jacqueline: I did my first play when I was in third grade.

Ariana: Do you have any interests outside of acting?
Jacqueline:  I teach yoga and I volunteer with an organization that is working to limit the influence of corporate money in politics and overturn citizens united.

Ariana: How do you wind down after a day of acting?
Jacqueline: I love to hike with my dogs, do yoga, hang out with friends or my fiancé, eat good food, drink good wine, listen to music...all the usual stuff.

Ariana: What would your advice to other artists/actors and actresses be?
Jacqueline: My advice to anyone would be nourish yourself. Physically, emotionally, spiritually. Do things and surround yourself with people who fill you rather than deplete you. Take time every day to sit quietly with yourself. Find a way to express your creativity, don't wait for someone else to give you permission. It's easier now than ever.

Jacqueline was recently featured on Big Morning Buzz Live, you can watch her here as she promotes her blog Beverly Hills Farms!

I want to thank Jacqueline so very, very much for participating in Art Appreciation Monday! She has, like so many of the past artists, encouraged and inspired new artists in the world. It is really fantastic to have different artists participate in Art Appreciation Monday, so that way all art can truly be appreciated! 

So, thanks to Jacqueline King again for participating, and taking the time to answer with such kindness as she did! :)

*****All the artwork/pictures/videos/music belongs to Jacqueline King!!!! 

There are links in blue which will direct you to 

the originals.**********

DO NOT USE ANY OF THE PICTURES/MUSIC/VIDEOS/or/WRITTEN WORK 

POSTED HERE WITHOUT PERMISSION!!!!!!! 

♦ Art Appreciation Monday ♦

Hello, and welcome to another Art Appreciation Monday! 

Last week I was honoured to spotlight musician and singer Phildel, and so...while you've been enjoying her music all week, I hope you will still be listening to her music as you read and enjoy this week's Art Appreciation Monday! 

This week we have artist who is (for a change) a little closer to home. This week, I'm proud to spotlight an amazing photographer, Logan Houchens!

This is probably one of my favourite pictures that Logan Houchens has captured. Not just because it has a glimpse of Italy's endless beauty, it is also because of the adorable little Volkswagen Beetle, I love old cars and this picture just wouldn't be as awesome if that little car wasn't in there. 

Ariana: What's your name?
Logan: Logan Houchens

Ariana: Are you human/boy/girl?
Logan: I am a guy, and also a human.

Ariana: What Country/Planet/State are you from?
Logan: I was born in Indiana but I have lived in Kentucky for most of my life.

Ariana: Do you have brothers/sisters/only child?
Logan: I have four siblings. My brother is the oldest, followed by two sisters, myself, and then another sister younger than me.

Ariana: Do you have any pets?
Logan: Yes, our family has many pets but my animals are most definitely my two dogs. Beau is an old Border Collie and my new puppy is Simba who is a Border Collie, German Shepherd mix.

Ariana: What is your favourite colour?
Logan: Hm, I would have to say its a tie between green and blue.

Ariana: Favourite movie?
Logan: Oh boy, this is a three way tie, my favorite movies all tied for first are... Into the Wild, Fight Club, and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. All of them are great movies with something to learn built within them.

Ariana: Favourite song?
Logan: I like a ton of different music so again I will have to build a tie between songs of different sections. Julie-O by Mark Summer, Free Falling (John Mayer's cover), and Ben Rector's And Then You Love Someone or his song Making Money. I know that's a lot, (oops!) but they are all lovely songs, so go check them out.
Ariana: Favourite book?
Logan: All of the book versions of my favorite movies, and also a political thriller called American Assassin by Vince Flynn.

Ariana: Currently reading?
Logan: Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë, also Persuasion by Jane Austen.

Ariana: Guilty pleasures?
Logan: You know, I don't know if I do have any guilty pleasures. I guess I watch too much Netflix.

Ariana: Birthday?
Logan: May 29

This photo not only captures the end of a beautiful day with all its radiance intact, the bright pinks and light blues are like a farewell gesture. The bird flying towards its nest for the night symbolizes the urge for all of us to turn homeward at dusk. I'm utterly fascinated by the colours in this picture and the softness of the pinks! ♥

Ariana: What inspires you most to take pictures?
Logan: I think I really am always inspired. I have always wanted to look at the world from a different perspective and appreciate every little thing I observe. But if I had to pick something that inspires me to go out and take pictures over my regular amount it would be when I listen to music. Music puts me into a mindset to just simply think (or not think I don't know). It puts me into a state of calm and my photography flourishes from that.

Ariana: How do you cope with lack of inspiration?
Logan: Like I said, I think I am always pretty well inspired, but if I am in the rare case of not being inspired being around close friends that just make me laugh truly inspires me.

Ariana: Talking about munchies... do you have a favourite food/drink?
Logan: I have always been a meat and potatoes lad so lets just say steak and mashed potatoes.

Ariana: Do you have a favourite thing to photograph, landscape, portrait, etc?
Logan: I must say I do not have a favorite thing in particular. I love to photograph people that actually know what to do when there is a camera around (aka they know when to model and when to simply be themselves) and then I also just loved the whole experience of taking pictures in Italy. That experience in and of itself was the best time of my life.

Ariana: When did you decide you wanted to be a photographer?
Logan: You know I am not sure. I always thought I would love to capture what I saw because it seemed other people couldn't see the same things I was. When I finally was able to get my hands on a camera I started learning how to use that tool to capture what I wanted other people to see as well. But the time I said hey this is a passion of mine and I want to do it as much as I possibly can would have to be when I traveled to Italy. The experience was amazing and I also received tons of support from my friends who saw my pictures afterwards and during.

Ariana: What kind of camera are your currently using?
Logan: I am currently using a Canon EOS Rebel T3 DSLR camera. I use it in tandem with it's standard Canon 18-55mm lens it comes with and a Canon 75-300mm lens.

Ariana: Is there a camera that you wish you could have?
Logan: I am a Canon fanboy so I would love to get Canon EOS 5D Mark III or the Canon EOS 5D Mark II.

Ariana: Do you take commissions for photography?
Logan: Ehh this is a tricky question. I prefer to shoot for people and then give them their pictures. Afterwards if they feel they need to pay me they do, if not I do it for the fun of it anyway. In the future I hope to start moving my way up doing senior pictures for people and weddings hopefully. I have already shot prom photos, travel abroad pictures, and even an engagement which I just happened to be next to.

Ariana: Is there anything you would not desire in way of commissions?
Logan: Like I said if someone feels they need to pay me they can but I don't ask for money. Once I become more practiced and know I will be able to deliver a result that lives up to my own standards I will give an estimate before a shoot. But as of now, I am not picky no.

Ariana: Do you edit any of your photos?
Logan: Nope, not as of now. I have been looking into some editing software but what I am looking at is pretty expensive so I will have to take that dive soon. But all of my pictures I have uploaded are original photographs without editing.

Ariana: What is something you most want to take a photograph of, but haven't got to yet?
Logan: There are many things I would like to photograph but haven't got the chance to yet. I want to drive cross-country in a converted bus of some type with a close group of friends and camp out along the way. I am sure that adventure would have an innumerable amount of good photographs. I want to go to Colorado with only one other person and snowboard and hike mountains. In this adventure I would like to get a picture of someone sitting atop a mountain looking out. Finally I have always wanted to travel to New York. Sit atop a building in downtown NYC and just enjoy the coming night. All of these I want to accomplish and I am determined to do.

Ariana: Are you planning a professional career as a photographer or is this more or less a hobby for you?
Logan: I am still working on that right now. All of me wants to but my head is keeping me back. Part of me says getting a real job in photography is too unstable but another part of me says what good is a stable job if you aren't doing what you love? So I am working that out in my head right now. I am unsure if I have what it takes.

Ariana: Who are your favourite photographers, or artists?
Logan: Meleah Reardon and John Huba. Both are very different artists that have very wide and expansive travel portfolios that are simply awe inspiring. If I had to pick one of the two to relate to however, I would have to pick Meleah Reardon. She encompasses everything I would love to do. She travels almost nonstop and she also mixes her photography with blog posts about what she is experiencing and her thoughts. I hope to do something similar but I fear my writing is too unstructured for people to want to read my posts as well. I am going to pursue it though just right now I am very busy with attending a University.

Ariana: How do you wind down after taking some of those brilliant pictures?
Logan: Wind down? I don't know what that is. Just kidding, but really I don't ever wind down from taking pictures because it really is my calming thing. I am also known for not letting myself relax though as I work almost 24/7 without sleeping much. So what I do after taking the pictures is I usually start going through them filtering out the bad ones so I can upload the album. I have been known to take pictures at say Prom which lasts until about 3 a.m. and then stay up to filter the pictures. Sometimes it isn't a very good practice though because when you upload things at 5 a.m. usually it gets covered by other stories and doesn't get much attention (case and point Prom pictures).

Ariana: What would your advice to other artists/photographers be?
Logan: I would just simply tell all other artists/photographers to go for it. You may doubt yourself in the beginning but assuming you work hard and you enjoy what you're doing you can't fail. This advice works with another little tidbit, however, and that advice is that art as a field is very unsteady and the only way to bring some order into it is for you to not only use your creative mindset but also your logical one. I urge all types of artists to know that you must look at what is successful and learn from it. You cannot remain stubborn to your originality if it makes you live in a way that you cannot sustain yourself. I am not saying to give up your creative perspective or any of your artistic talents, I am saying find a balance.

Logan Houchens has used a unique and interesting angle to capture this beautiful Italian street. 

Of course, the Christmas lights are in great focus and aren't blurry or smudged (I've been there before!). Even though the lighting in this picture is very, very particular, it creates a hauntingly beautiful scene.

Thank you so much Logan Houchens, for agreeing to be part of Art Appreciation Monday. 

I'm very honoured to be able to feature a local artist and I'm so thrilled he agreed to do an interview and  share his amazing talent.

 Like all the other artists featured on Art Appreciation Monday, I can't wait to see what is next for him. 

While Logan Houchens doesn't have any blogs or websites available yet, whenever he make a blog or website, I will most certainly post up a link. :) 

This picture looks to the horizon, just as all artists and my readers should. Look to the horizon like Logan Houchens did while taking this picture, even if you aren't a photographer! Keep your head up so you can see the beauty in the world and your dreams! 

*****All the artwork/pictures/videos/music belongs to Logan Houchens!!!! 

DO NOT USE ANY OF THE PICTURES/MUSIC/VIDEOS/or/WRITTEN WORK 

POSTED HERE WITHOUT PERMISSION!!!!!!!