Behind the Art with Jen Matott

 

 This month's theme "Intention" inspired me to take a look at what I do or intend to do each day.  I wake up and make a "to do" list each morning.  I make my intentions for the day whether it is realistic or not, I try to check off those things on the list.  Sometimes the list is very long and sometimes it contains leftover items from the day before, but the goal is not the empty my list, but rather to focus my energies for the day.  There are some days that I only accomplish one or two items but that is still a victory!

  

Often, I will throw in a over arching goal/ intention just to make it seem less like a monotonous list but rather a way to better myself and others in my life.  For example, "show appreciation for a friend in some way"... whether it's a phone call or sending a note.  Sometimes it is important to remember to do things for others and not always just a personal list.

It's important to me to try to focus my day and prioritize what I have to do with what I love to do!  What is on your daily "to do" list?

Behind the Art with Melissa

Hello everyone!

I don't know about you but, aging is a little hard for me. I definitely don't feel the age I am and I find myself longing for younger years. Not always. Sometimes I embrace where I'm at but, more times that not, I seem to drift off into my daydreams of days gone by. Well, the reality is that I'm not that young anymore. The age of 40 is beginning to become more and more of a reality. And, for my personally, it's all just a bit surreal.

Over the years I've had lots of dreams and goals. When they have been met, I dream up more goals. Something I have come to realize is, I rarely focus on the hear and now. Perhaps that is why I have these moments of dreaming of the past. and wishing that time could rewind. 

As I was journaling and creating with the Intention kit, this thought kept coming up in my mind and, finally, I realized I needed to process it all. That is the beauty of our philosophy here at Inside Out! The photo I used for this layout is quite symbolic. I took it right before getting a hair cut and my attitude in that moment was one where I couldn't wait for the future! Now, I look back at this photo and think to myself, "yes, my hair needed to be cut but, why couldn't I just be thankful in that moment? why did I find it necessary to rush time?"

It seems silly to some, perhaps, that I'm having these thoughts over a haircut but, the symbolism goes so much broader than that. 

How many times have I done this with other moments of my life? How many times have I wanted time to rush by because there was something coming up and I just couldn't wait? Therefore, many precious moments were missed because I just wanted the week to fly by. 

In my own personal life, and maybe this is something you can relate to right now too, I want to stop rushing time. I want to stop missing out on the blessings that are currently surrounding me. I want to have more "stop and smell the roses" moments. 

Goals are good. Vision is good. Dreams are good.  I'll continue having all those things. But, I want to also remember to notice what is around me now. 

Interesting how this can relate to INTENTION, doesn't it? 

After creating this and writing it all down, I have noticed that I'm more aware of my current surroundings. I've noticed my pace has slowed. There are things on the horizon that I could be easily gazing at and missing what is front of me but, I'm trying my hardest to keep my eyes on the here and now.  It's been good for my soul. 

Behind the Art with Jen Matott

My third page this month is my favorite from this kit.  Immediately, I was drawn to the Glitz paper with the drips!  I knew I had to cut some of those out and use them on this page.  I wanted to focus on my intention to "dream big" but have the attitude that what will be will be.  Intentions are only as good as the action you provide to make them happen. 

 Sometimes my big intentions are a bit overwhelming and I get stressed about the length of my wants and to do lists.  I have to remember to breathe and enjoy the journey too.

 

After I cut out the drips and glued them to the grey cardstock, I started by die cutting banner/ triangles using my Cricut with the cardstock and some patterned papers.  I created different sizes and some with cut out shapes inside.  These were attached with glue and staples. I doodled inside the shapes with a Faber-Castell Design Memory Craft PITT® Artist Pen.
.

I used some of the punched out shapes all over to add interest and splattered watered down Gelatos® Color in Black Licorice.

I love the colors of this page and it makes me WANT to do creative things!  I intend to keep creating this year (my One Little Word too) and making new things that make me happy!

What will you intend to do this year? How to you not get overwhelmed by all that you want to do?

Behind the Art with Melissa

Good day everyone!

Today I'm sharing with you one of my favorite layouts. It definitely strays from my more typical "clean and simple" style and includes some super bright colors and Gelatos!

Gelatos don't come in this kit but we have had them in past kits and they are SUPER fun! I recently got a big set for my birthday and was looking forward to using them on a project. But I'm not really here to share technique stuff with you. Today I want to share the heart of my layout.

First, I was inspired by one of our journaling prompts. You can find these on our Inspiration Page. They are great as a stepping stone to visually journaling your thoughts and what is really stirring inside your heart. I just love how, each month, the theme seems to speak into exactly where my life is at. I'm ready to dive into that part of my soul. SO cool!

Anyway, the prompt that inspired me goes like this:

What's the plan? When you have a goal in mind, do you plan the steps you need to take to reach that goal or do you just go with your gut in the direction of your aim? Have you ever set an intention to achieve something and carried it out to your satisfaction? How confident were you when identifying the goal; did your confidence waver while you were pursuing your goal?

As I finished reading this prompt, a flurry of memories and thoughts came to mind. When I get a goal in my head, what do I do? I go after it. There is no stopping me. In fact, I get so into meeting that goal that it can get overwhelming sometimes. But, I love this part of me!  I haven't always been this way. There was a time when I might have had goals and told everybody the steps I was going to take in meeting them but, I never actually did it.

It's different now.

I loved pulling the bold and bright from this kit, for this layout. It made sense to create LOTS of movement and make the page busy. Because that's what I feel like, in the moment of pursuing my plans.

Lots of chevron, zig zag and arrows to use. They not only create lots of movement on my layout but, also provide the symbolism. I wanted to create an almost dizzying effect on my page. The reason is because that is what my head is like sometimes. SOOOO much busyness goes in my brain when I get these goals, plans and ideas. My intention is to meet every single one of them. 

No wonder I feel so overwhelmed and exhausted at times! Even though the fruit of my labors may not show, what is happening in my brain can be very scary. Haha! Now you get to see that on this layout. I loved adding in the painted background, with my Gelatos, too. Instead of just a solid background, I wanted something messy. Well... messy for me, anyway. :) 

Using the cameras on this layout reminded me of Instagram. Who else is SO thankful for that app??? Whoever created it was a genius. You can agree or not or have your opinions about social media but, I love this tool that captures my life in a second. I can share it with who I want to but, I love that I can use my little phone to take a quick snapshot of what is happening right now. And then, days, weeks, months and years down the road, I can look back at those photos and remember. I did that the other day as I looked at photos from Christmas. It brought so much joy!  But I digress, I love that these photos can help me recall things that I might have otherwise forgotten, because I was so busy pursuing my goal or plan. 

I'm thankful for how I've changed and morphed into someone who is driven and not afraid. In fact, I get an adrenaline rush from taking risks. I feel like I would have missed out on some amazing experiences in life had I not.

Thanks for swinging by today and I hope that this not only shows you a bit more of how you can use our kits and to visually journal but also how to take one of our prompts and personalize it for YOU.

Behind the Art with Jen Matott

Do you choose a word for the year- One Little Word?   I always choose one but then don't follow through with the documentation of my year in regards to the word... this year I wanted to pick one that I was sure to be able to apply to many of my goals and everyday happenings.  SO my word is CREATE..

 My intention is to CREATE more art this year, CREATE a more healthful routine, CREATE more family time, CREATE more "me" time!  I think I might be able to do a bit of each... hmmm...

 Every year, there are new goals and some of the same ole',  same ole' but really I just want to CREATE something that makes me happy. 

For this page, I was inspired by all the gorgeous colored papers and those chalkboard frames... I cut the center out of it and found the perfect photo to symbolize looking back on last year and driving towards this year. 

 

 I used Faber-Castell Design Memory Craft® Chalk board paint for the black circles and also used an empty washi tape roll to stamp open circles on the page.  The American Crafts Galaxy marker draws perfectly on the paint surface!  I added some doodles and words to the circles.

 

 Some circles using the Faber-Castell Design Memory Craft® Gelatos® colors were added.  Added the cut out circles from the gorgeous patterned papers and embellishments gives this page POP!

 I adored this kit and the whole sentiment that goes along with INTENTION!  I sure hope I can keep my intentions and keep up with my word this year!

Behind the Art with Melissa

Hi everyone and happy Tuesday!

Are you a goal setter? Do you like to make sure you have something to strive for?

I do.

Almost to a fault.

Because sometimes those goals are just silly. Let's be honest. Let's not sugar coat. Even with the best intentions, some of the goals I set aren't really goals. They are plans I've set forth for myself that, I know full well, aren't and most likely won't be reality. 

I'm not trying to be a "debbie downer" here. I think goals are very important and good to have. I'm talking about those goals like, "In one week I will be 100 pounds lighter and be married to a rich man who will supply me with all the necessary things I need to scrapbook." 

Um.

You see what I'm talking about? Yes, that example might be a little bit exaggerated but, I'm hoping you can see my point. These are the kind of goals I tend to make for myself. It's no wonder that I've been let down many, many, many, many, many, many times. (Haven't we all?)

For the longest time my thoughts were, what the heck is wrong with me? But, there is nothing wrong with me. There is just something wrong with how I'm going about this. Not matter what my intentions are. 

Enter this layout. A layout that I chat about goals not met. Goals that have left me a little depressed. Goals that left me feeling defeated instead of motivated. 

So, I'm going about goal-making a little differently. I'm not 21 anymore. I'm pushing 40 and it's time to think about goals that make me a better person. Not goals that push my status (whatever that means.)  The goals I set for myself now, are to be true to myself. To be brave. To believe and have faith that God has all things in control. It's not easy but, it's a lot better than placing ideals in my head that aren't healthy. 

The symbolism in this kit is divine and so perfect for this layout! I punched lots of circles because, I feel like I've come full circle with my life. I've taken lots of journeys. I've done lots of inward work. The camera is such a great way to symbolize capturing a thought or moment. This is something I definitely want to capture and remind myself of, down the road. 

Does this resonate with you? How are you with making goals and how are your intentions for reaching them? What are you intending to do with those goals? Go create and journal your thoughts! 

Last Stop on the INTENTION Blog Hop & Rachel's OLW

Most of you are probably familiar with Ali Edwards One Little Word (TM) concept.

It's something that has always appealed to me. But it hasn't always 'worked' for me.

By that I mean that I've struggled with keeping my word in my sight, in my mind and in my heart.

For me, the idea of OLW actually predates Ali's great marketing and passion for this idea. 

Growing up in a religious household, the idea of setting your INTENTION is a central concept in how you choose to live your life. While I'm not part of that religious community anymore, I am still drawn to the idea that to make something count, you have to create an INTENTION.

Example? Praying isn't about asking for stuff, it's about the connection you make with the divine. And that connection is generated by focusing your mind on what it is you hope for. In Hebrew, that INTENTION is called 'kavanah'. In my mind's eye, that word carries a lot of weight. It's more than intention - it's sacred intention. And that intention is the main ingredient in success. It's not a guarantee, but it's the clearest way to your destination.

That's what was in my heart when I created the SFTIO February Kit, INTENTION. I wanted to help myself, our team and all of you to clarify your goals, dreams and desires for the coming year.

So my OLW for 2014 is a little nod to my heritage...

HERE.

As in being conscious to stay in the present moment (be here, be now) and also to 'show up' for life and for challenges (raising my hand, here!) There's also the Torah story of Moses being called and he says 'Hineni' - 'I am here' indicating that he is ready and available for what is next. 

As I INTEND to be. Here.

Thanks to our great Design Team for sharing their INTENTION layouts for the hop! I'm SO motivated to stay on my path to HERE.

Our first Inside Out challenge for you for this month is just that:

One Little Word: Do you set an intention for the year, using the one little word concept or perhaps by making New Year’s resolutions? Does using these techniques help you change in a positive direction, or does it put pressure on you that is sometimes too intense? How have you fared in prior years using OLW and do you have one in place for this year? What did you choose and why?

Tell me what you think about the OLW concept and how or if it works for you in the comments to be eligible for a prize. The more blogs in the hop on which you comment, the more chances you have to win. Make sure to comment by 9 p.m. Pacific Time on Saturday and we'll announce the winner will be announced Monday.

What will you win?

And it'll be filled with artsy goodies to help you soar!

More importantly, we want you to be inspired to create art about your world - so use the prompt - whether or not you choose a OLW, explore the idea...what draws you in, what repels you, all that matters is how YOU feel.

And if you feel like it, share it with us on FB. We'd love to be part of your inner world.

In case you're starting here, you can go back to Melissa's Blog and hop in this order:

Melissa

Jen

Stacey

Heather

SFTIO Blog (You're Here!)

Our INTENTION kit is still available - check it out here...click the photo to see all the fab details and get yours today! You're worth it.

Behind the Scenes with Jen Matott

Another gorgeous kit with so much inspiration with all the little elements makes it so easy for me to get my mojo going!  Here is one of my layouts from this kit...

 

 This was the first layout I created with this kit.  I knew I wanted to create something on that black cardstock with the American Crafts Galaxy white pen and the stencil!  I started with using the Crafter's Workshop stencil to draw the "captured" word and then drew hatched lines inside the negative space areas between the letters.  I love that is is reminiscent of the blackboard trend popular now.  I also added the camera and the frames. 

   

My favorite paper of this kit was the chevron print!  I also loved the little wooden frame with the heart paper.  Some white ink drips add some artsy touches to the page.

We all take lots of photos of OTHER people... family, friends, events.  But when do you get in the photo?  Selfies have changed all that... If no one is around and I need to document myself, I selfie!  With digital cameras now, it's easy!  I feel pretty silly doing it most times but I love that I have some photos of myself at events that I might have missed being in the pictures.  Don't forget that you are important to document too!  Get those selfies taken and scrapped!  This kit is perfect for the intention to put yourself in those moments too! Have fun with it and I can't wait to see you in those photos!  

Behind the Art with Melissa

I thought it perfect to create a layout based on the word I chose for 2014.
This coming Friday, I'll be sharing some design tips about this layout but, I thought I would give you a glimpse at why I chose certain elements from the kit.

I started doing this tradition about 4 years ago. While I don't remember where I heard about choosing a word first, I am sure it was passed along from the One Little Word workshop Ali Edwards does.

Each year I've felt the need to choose a quiet word. This year, I felt I needed to choose a movement word. I've spent a few years being very introspective. I've examined myself and my heart. I've been cautious. In a good way. But, there is something different about this year. I feel like the butterfly just after hatching out of the cocoon. My wings are drying out and I'm ready to fly! I love it!

So, my word is DREAM.

Photo Source: Unknown

I was immediately drawn to the paper with the dream catcher on it. How appropriate right???

Hearts, feathers and bling seem to help symbolize the freedom I wanted to exude with this page. My journaling is simple. It's written in a way that would make it great to come back and read. 

I want to read it and say, "Oh yeah!!! Off I go!!!" 

I feel like 2014 is going to be a banner year for me. Fittingly, I chose a banner from the chalkboard stickers in the kit. How awesome is the texture on that sticker??? It's hard to see from the main photo. I just love texture. :)

My final piece of symbolism was using the chevron bling. Moving forward. Not standing still.

This girl has done enough thinking and has every INTENTION of moving forward and dreaming up all kinds of adventures. 

What's your INTENTION? Our Newest Kit is LIVE!

What will you MAKE HAPPEN in 2014? Set your INTENTION with our latest kit - bright, shimmery and bold!

Features My Mind's Eye Cut and Paste, Glitz Free Spirit and Hazel and Ruby's Chalk it Up.

Great journaling and title cards, a chalk pen, clips and enamel shapes, plus photo themed overlays, 6 different alphas, and what is bound to be your favorite stencil ever from Ronda Palazzari.

It's already inside you...what are you waiting for?

It's Time.

 

 

 

Click Here to buy.