In the Circles of my Mind...

Monday Greetings to you all! A new week flashes a smile and so does a new theme at Simon Says Stamp & Show where it's 'Women Only'. The fairer(?) sex, Diva, mother, lass, chica, gal, sister, damsel and Queen - we can be them all! Just maybe not all on a Monday morning though... I had been down with a cold all week and only felt fit enough to tackle my DT piece late on Saturday. So inspired by a single face I let my creative muse go freestyle.

The mystery of the female mind seemed an interesting path, so I surrounded myself with a hearty array of Wendy Vecchi Art Parts, stamps and inks and let the shapes tell me where they wanted to go. Soon enough the circular shapes and curved lines were winning my attention. I figured a woman's mind must be round because our thoughts sure like to perform some serious laps...

I used many shapes from the Sample Pack, which is just brimming with potential, and started out by constructing the flower pedestal. I used a combination of Fired Brick and Chipped Sapphire Distress Inks to colour them up, over stamping with Snow Cap Pigment ink or Coffee Archival ink. I really love how the Art by Number Stamp came out on the blue flower!

From there it was a process of constructing the main focus. I covered the circular frame with an old book page, inked it up and then glued the lower Art Part Leaves in place, which I've inked in Rusty Hinge. I also glued a small block of chip board to the other side of the circle. By glueing these three layers together I created more width at the base giving a more stable point I could then super glue to the pedestal.

I glued the other leaves in place and set to work on my lady who it is of course all about. I used the rather quirky but appealing Phrenology stamp from Art Rules. I stamped her onto Manila cardstock which I'd glued onto Grungeboard for extra thickness, adding some colour with Stormy Sky. I wanted to increase her feminine traits, so I added flowers stamped using the same set to create some floral hair, a Spinner pin, a little blush and lips with a crayon along with a glossy embossed starry eye. Ah, what a little make-up can do for a gal...! Then I felt that the Wings and Hands and ring could add some symbolism for the dreams, practical giftings and commitment of many a woman.

At the base I wanted to add one simple sentiment which was also destined for more circular lines. The pocket watch was just perfect in shape and mood. The desire to step out and yet the restrictions of time! I think we all know that Catch 22 story. I had a great journey.

I love being totally absorbed... it was wonderful to just sit and create in the moment, yet achieve a piece that expresses all you long to say.

I hope I can encourage you to be more spontaneous and free and to trust your own creative mood of the moment. Women Only is a fabulous theme which can be taken down so many paths. I'm looking forward to seeing your ideas on this one! Take a look at all the Design Teams really wonderful interpretations here. There's oodles of inspiration to be found!

So why not get creative, make a bid for the Top Three Title and be in with a chance of winning that very generous $50 shopping spree!
I'm into the wee hours now. I'm must flee the blogging nest and ascend the wooden hill. I've got a morning of sleeping in to catch up on. Heaven. Thanks ever so much for calling by. Wishing you all a great Monday (they do exist). I shall be back later...Sarah.