Monday, January 31, 2011

2011.032 "Psychadelic Bird of Paradise"

Once in a while it hits me...the urge to create something with crazy, psychadelic colors. I know beyond any shadow of a doubt this is the influnce of my mother. She hit the 80's and refused to leave until she passed away in 2009. Day glow green, neon pink, highlighter yellow...the brighter the colors the more happy it made her.

If you didn't know my mom you missed out. She was 4'10", strawberry blonde hair, blue eyes and covered from head to toe in freckles. Needless to say she was extremely cute!

Anyway, today has been one of those days. I started out with more muted, calming colors but it rapidly developed into something more "far out man". This week I am breaking away from my usual swirls and fractal designs and trying some new techniques I have been learning. This one, despite it's crazy color scheme, is one of the more complicated pieces I've done to date.

I hope Monday has treated you well so far. I've been hearing warnings of epic winter storms on the way for most of the US. Stay in and stay warm!

Psychadelic Bird of Paradise - 12x12 digipaint

~ Lisa


You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/


If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell


You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Sunday, January 30, 2011

2011.031 "You Move Me"

It's been 30 days! I am so excited that my heart is not only still in this but that every day I look forward to seeing what wants to come out and play.

I have been studying some digital painting techniques and learning, learning, learning. Let me tell you, this is every bit as challenging as painting with a physical brush and canvas and I think the process quite similar. The more you practice, the better you become.

The events of this week and the subsequent emotions that have been brought out have been such a wonderful, albeit painful, experience. In the wake of my burst heart I have found new insight and great peace.

So in honor of this being the 30th day and the new things I have learned in skill and in spirit I am proud to share today's piece, "You Move Me".

You Move Me - 12x12 digipaint

When I realized what the name of this piece was supposed to be I was immediately reminded of a beautiful song of the same name. The artist is Susan Ashton and I found the mp3 on Amazon, in case you're interested in hearing and downloading this lovely song:  You Move Me (A Distant Call Album Verison)


Blessings and Peace as you start a new week!

~ Lisa


You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/


If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell


You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Saturday, January 29, 2011

2011.030 "Poppy Has the Shivers"

In Wichita, Kansas today it is an incredibly beautiful day. The sun is shining and the temperature this afternoon is 70 degrees! It's January 29th so this kind of warm day is pratically unheard of in Kansas.

There's nothing at all on my mind today but relaxing and enjoying the sweetness of this great day.  My inspiration for today's blog piece is the thought of spring being just one or two snow storms away. If any of the little flowers tried to bloom today they would be too cold to make it to spring. So I wondered, what would it look like if a flower had the shivers?

Today's piece... "Poppy Has the Shivers"

Poppy Has the Shivers - 12x12 digipaint

I hope this makes you giggle thinking about a little flower saying "brrr".  :o)

~ Lisa

You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/


If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell


You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart


Friday, January 28, 2011

2011.029 "My Heart Burst Open"

I realize this post, even now as you have seen the title and are reading this first sentence, is unusually macabre for me. I've had a very emotional day with things bubbling to the surface that are completely heartbreaking.

Late yesterday evening I read an article from last year about one of my favorite musicians. The article was about how she had "come out" as a lesbian. That in itself is not a surprising thing to find in the headlines anymore but what made this case particularly striking was that she had, several years ago, gained a good deal of notoriety as a "Christian" artist. I first saw her in concert when she was opening for another artist who I had been following for years and years.

I found the article fretfully intriguing. I mean that I was fretful that I was intrigued. Can a person live a life contrary to mainstream religious tenets and still have faith, and a relationship with their creator? Can anyone at all be the judge of such a thing that is not themselves grappling for the truth?

In my wondering I shared the article on my facebook wall and asked the question, "what do you think of this"? I layed some groundrules asking that all responses be based in love and respect. Immediately I began receiving a barrage of comments both public and private. Most, sadly, were laden with condemnation and the biblical references that are nearly always seen and heard when Christians take aim at anyone they deem hopelessly bound in sin.

After several hours and a few messages that were so harsh I felt as though I were the one on trial I decided to end the madness and delete the entire thread. What had begun as a question from an honest heart had turned into something divisive and ugly.

I have been around Christians my entire life. My family was part of the same segment of protestant religion for generations upon generations. One thing I have found to be morosely consistent is the rabid consumption of their own, once condemned.

At some point I attempted to make reference to a biblical passage myself but it made little difference. I am reiterating the entire passage to which I was referring here:

 If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don't love, I'm nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing. If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.

   Love never gives up.
   Love cares more for others than for self.
   Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.
   Love doesn't strut,
   Doesn't have a swelled head,
   Doesn't force itself on others,
   Isn't always "me first,"
   Doesn't fly off the handle,
   Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,
   Doesn't revel when others grovel,
   Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
   Puts up with anything,
   Trusts God always,
   Always looks for the best,
   Never looks back,
   But keeps going to the end.

 Love never dies. Inspired speech will be over some day; praying in tongues will end; understanding will reach its limit. We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.
When I was an infant at my mother's breast, I gurgled and cooed like any infant. When I grew up, I left those infant ways for good.
We don't yet see things clearly. We're squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won't be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!
But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.
This morning I saw strutting. I saw swelled heads, flying off the handle, attempts to force will, keeping score of the sins of others and disregard. I was heartbroken and even ashamed. I remembered all the reasons why I have struggled with calling myself a Christian.

Mahatma Gandhi spoke with more profundity than I could ever summon when he said, "“I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.”

Today my heart was burst open.


My Heart Burst Open - 12x12 digipaint

I am fully aware that your opinions may differ from my own. I am also aware that each of us walks our own pace with our faith. I implore you to keep in mind that not one of us is any better than another and that grace is not conditional. If it were, even the best of us would be doomed. We should be quick to love, quick to forgive, slow to anger and resist the urge to condemn others in light of our own shortfalls.

Peace to you.
~ Lisa

You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/


If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell


You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Thursday, January 27, 2011

2011.028 "The Surprise Inside"

Have you ever cut an apple through the middle, seperated the shell of a sand dollar or picked up a dried pod that once contained life-giving seeds? I notice these little things all the time and they are so inspiring.

To think that God cares enough to make something that is easily overlooked so intricate and beautiful and that same being cares for me...well that's pretty awesome.

This a photo of one of my favorite seed pods and the source of inspiration for today's blog piece.




I have often used these pods in decorating everything from a fall table to a brown paper wrapped gift. Aren't they gorgeous?

Today's blog piece is called "The Surprise Inside". Though inspired by nature it also reminds me of the stunning beauty that lies inside human beings. So I have a challenge for you, my kind friends, and a question.


The Surprise Inside - 12x12 compound digipaint


The challenge: Every day next week observe the people around you. Take in who they are and try to see something you haven't seen before. You will be surprised and probably spark some new friendships.

The question: What is your favorite thing in nature that has a hidden inner beauty?

Namaste and blessings to you.

~ Lisa

You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/


If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell


You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart


Wednesday, January 26, 2011

2011.027 "Calm Sands"

Back to hand drawn brush strokes, swirls and soothing colors. Today has been a very busy but very peaceful day. I don't have much to say, dear friends.

Grab someone you love and hug them tight. Don't forget to laugh at yourself and take a moment from time to time for a deep breath and a prayer.

Calm Sands - 12x12 digipaint

Peace to you.
~ Lisa

You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/


If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell


You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

2011.026 "A Really Great Day"

There's not much about today's blog piece that fraught with emotion or inspired by a long story or some part of my journey as a human being.

It's simply a reflection of a really great day. Today I was able to accomplish some personal goals and had the most amazing time with my youngest son I believe we've ever had together. He's a challenging little boy with a number of cognitive and emotional delays so I admit that even on a good day it's hard to connect with him the way I would like. Today was an exception. A beautiful exception filled with silliness, laughter, real conversation and lots of hugs. It was truly a great day.

A Really Great Day - 12x12 compound digipaint

~ Lisa

You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/


If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell


You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Monday, January 24, 2011

2011.025 "The Beauty Inside"

Real beauty is on the inside. Isn't that what we've always been told? I wonder how many of you, my dear friends, have been judged not by the beauty that lies inside you but by what is seen from the outside?

This evening I joined my son in a meeting of an anti-bullying group at his middle school. The objective is to keep our kids safe from bullying, dating violence and dangerous relationships - even friendships. When first he told me of this group I immediately felt negative about him participating. It felt like someones social agenda being pushed and yet another push for total equality and tolerance. Please don't misunderstand me. I believe in peace between people of all colors, creeds, and persuasions. What I don't believe in is some out of touch group of policy-makers forcing their agenda in the name of such things. I believe simply in the golden rule and that we should all live by the wisdom it offers.

Treat others as you want to be treated.

After some time and hearing the positive messages of this group my mind was changed. I believe they are truly attempting to make a difference and I applaud their efforts.

This evening as I sat in that meeting I realized that maybe it wasn't so much me bristling up at the idea of a secret social agenda but rather old feelings from when I was myself a victim of cruel bullying as a junior high and high school student. I was shy, geeky, in band and orchestra and on the debate team. I was a softball player and a swimmer and well liked by all of my teachers. I was always on the honor roll and never went to parties. I listened to new wave and punk music and dressed like a character from the movie Pretty in Pink. I wasn't popular and I wasn't a cheerleader. Ok I was a cheerleader for half a year as a junior because I thought maybe it would make a difference in how my peers treated me but was even picked on at that level by other cheerleaders who didn't think I belonged in their group until I quit the squad.

Today's blog piece is reflective of my feelings about being bullied and overlooked because I didn't quite fit in. It's pale and flat on the outside. Not ugly, just not flashy or brilliantly beautiful. It's simple. As you look deeper and deeper into the center you see the true beauty that lies within.


The Beauty Inside - 12x12 compound digipaint


Don't overlook or mistreat people because they may not fit your idea of beautiful. Live by the golden rule. Teach your children to live by its wisdom. Say hello to strangers and don't be afraid to greet the world with a smile. You never know what beauty may be lying just below the surface of each face you greet.

~ Lisa


You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/


If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell


You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Sunday, January 23, 2011

2011.024 "Knitted Together"

My maternal Grandmother was a master with knitting needles. Every evening that I can recall she would sit down after the evening meal and work on her knitting. Usually it was a sweater for one of the grandchildren or a shower gift for a new baby. I remember watching her hands work in steady unison, using sharp and shiny colored implements to weave the intricate patterns that would eventually be a perfectly constructed warm, wearable piece of hand-made art.

I will likely share many stories of my Grandmother this year. She was one of my most favorite people and she lived a fascinating life. She passed away 20 years ago this April but there is still not a day that goes by without her crossing my mind.

Today's blog piece is in honor of my Grandmother and the beautiful things she made. The last sweater she knit for me was my freshman year of college. It remains in my closet today. Perhaps I'll take a photo of it and add it to this entry later. The color of that sweater is a soft minty green and she attached tiny pearl beads to the neckline. The yarn she used was particulary pricey for the time and is still very soft and warm.

This one is called "Knitted Together". I think you will immediately understand why, even without my story.



Knitted Together - 12x12 compound fractal

~ Lisa

A few years ago I took up knitting myself and although I may never be as skilled as my Grandmother I do find it a very relaxing and enjoyable activity. If you're interested you can check out a number of how-to books. Also in Wichita there is a wonderful shop called Twist Yarn Shop in Delano that offers classes and a weekly knitting circle.

You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/


If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell


You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Saturday, January 22, 2011

2011.023 "One Shining Example"

This morning on facebook I posed this question to my friends:

"I've heard it takes only one strong, consistent positive influence in a young person's life to make all the difference. Do you think that's true?"

We've all heard stories of the special teacher who stayed after school to mentor a struggling student or the family friend who is always there when things seem to get rocky. I know in my own younger life there were several of these special people. When I faced dark, confusing and chaotic times they were there. Sometimes they helped me understand what was going on but sometimes it was as simple as a warm hug or a sympathetic ear.

These people stand as shining examples of love and strength. They have a way of drawing you in and helping you find a way to see through even the darkest of times.

Yesterday I was challenged to allow myself to be more transparent and allow my experiences and emotions show in more of my creations. This could take a while, friends, but I am going to try to rise to your challenge. Today's blog piece took longer than any other so far to put together. I was thinking about the beautiful, warm, strong, compassionate friends I have encountered in my life. I was thinking about how they have helped to draw me out. So the brightly colored field and shapes are representative of those people. The swirls on the side represent me - full of doubt, fear and despair - looking in on them and being subtly influenced by their positive warmth. It's called "One Shining Example".


One Shining Example - 12x12 digipaint

Please share a story of someone who has influenced you in a positive way in the comments.

~ Lisa


You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/


If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell


You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Friday, January 21, 2011

2011.022 "The Moonlight Battle of the Mean Reds and the Happy Yellows"

Holly Golightly: You know those days when you get the mean reds?
Paul Varjak: The mean reds, you mean like the blues?
Holly Golightly: No. The blues are because you're getting fat and maybe it's been raining too long, you're just sad that's all. The mean reds are horrible. Suddenly you're afraid and you don't know what you're afraid of. Do you ever get that feeling?

I've had at least three days this week where the mean reds have tried to beat me down. Maybe it's the cold, grey weather or maybe it's something else entirely. Whatever it is I find it enormously irritating because  by nature I'm more of a happy yellow kind of girl. Needless to say this has been a less than attractive week as a whole and I'm certainly glad it is near its end.

Today's blog piece is also less than attractive. Ha ha. It's most decidedly a strong departure from the fluffly fun pink and orange fractals and digipaints I've come up with recently. This one is about war. Call it whatever you like - good vs evil, light vs dark - it's all the same fight. Sometimes we win and it's a bright, sunny, happy optimistic day. Sometimes we lose and it's nothing but the pits, baby.

In the end what matters most is our ability to hold off the mean reds and stand with our bright smiles and shiny faces proclaiming victory for such forces of good as The Silver Lining and Sunny Side Up. OOO-RAH!


The Moonlight Battle of the Mean Reds and the Happy Yellows - 12x12 fractal

If the cynicism of this posting has your head swimming I do offer my most sincere apologies. You are certainly welcome to refer to this piece as simply "Ketchup vs Mustard".

~ Lisa



You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/


If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell


You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart


If you've never seen Breakfast at Tiffany's you should. You can get a copy from Amazon here: Breakfast At Tiffany's - Paramount Centennial Collection (Mastered in High Definition)

Thursday, January 20, 2011

2011.021 "Triptowheel"

This is my 20th post. How awesome! I'm the kind of person who loves celebrating milestones. It doesn't matter if it's small or insignificant to anyone else - I'm going to celebrate anyway! Graduation from 5th grade? Party! Big job interview? WOOHOO! 20 days of posting fun digital artwork? Bring on the cake and streamers!  Anyway, you get the point.

For today's blog piece I started with another hypotrochoid then decided to give it my signature swirling paint effect. Seriously I think someone should name this effect after me since I adore it so much. As much as fractals are fascinating - swirls are swoony. :o)

This one is called "Triptowheel".

Triptowheel - 12x12 digipaint

If it's icy and snowy where you are take extra time, wear extra layers and be careful!

~ Lisa


You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/


If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell


You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

2011.020 "Look Into My Hypotrochoid"

All that talk yesterday about the Spirograph toy led me to one big question for today's blog piece. Can I created a hypotrochoid in photoshop in a similar manner to the way I create fractals? The answer...well, sort of.

Fractals begin as a single square and evolve with a combination of manual adjustments and machine calculations. Each one can take 3-6 hours to put together. If I have a bit of something or other left over from a previous attempt it may take less time but generally it does take a chunk of each day to produce them.

Hypotrochoids are a horse of a different color, however. They seem innocuous enough. I mean it's a bunch of perfect circles arranged in a particular pattern, right? Not so much! The precise angles of rotation are challenging and there are not much in the way of machine calculations readily available. As I mentioned when I posted the Fibonacci fractal, I am most defnitely NOT a numbers person.

So my blonde went to war with the stubborn and after half a pot of coffee we finally figured it out. Today I share with you my first hypotrochoid not created with my favorite childhood toy. Because I am so mesmorized by these shapes I thought it only fitting to call this one, "Look Into My Hypotrochoid".

Look Into My Hypotrochoid - 12x12 compound hypotrochoid
You're getting very sleepy. Verrrry sleeeeepy.  :o)

~ Lisa

You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/

If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell

You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

If you're fascinated enough to care about the math behind these shapes check out this book: Hypotrochoid

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

2011.019 "Sunspot Reflections"

This color theme is beginning to look familiar, isn't it? I have discovered that I am seriously missing the warm sunshine lately and it is definitely showing in everything I am creating. I bet the last three would look pretty cool together on a wall though!

I also seem to be fixated on fractals lately. Not that they are any easier to create, just that I find such beauty in their structure. So much like snowflakes in the way each one is vastly different from the last. This morning I realized just how long I have loved the geometry and intricacy of fractals and hypotrochoids.

When I was a young girl I received a toy called a Spirograph for one of my birthdays. It was one of my most treasured toys. The "vintage" set looked like this:



I was excited to discover there is an updated version of this set. It will be fun to try it out with my boys and see what they think.

Having discovered hypotrochoids, concentric shapes and fractals so early in my life I understand a bit more why I find them so captivating now.

Today's blog piece is another compound fractal that pays tribute to warmer days. This one is called "Sunspot Reflections".


Sunspot Reflections - 12x12 compound fractal

~ Lisa

You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/

If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell

You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

If you'd like to try out the updated Spirograph toy you can purchase it online here: Deluxe Spirograph

Monday, January 17, 2011

2011.018 "Grandmother's Doily"

My Grandmother had doilies all over her house. Some of them I'm certain were very old and none of them were machine made. Like snowflakes these little fragile handmade works of textile beauty are each unique in size and pattern. I hadn't thought about the word doily for so long but this morning as I was sitting down to make today's blog piece my dear Grandmother was on my mind.

Have you any memories that are so significant you can close your eyes and almost literally step into the scene? I feel that way about my Grandparents' house. Furnishings and decor were rarely (if ever) moved. Though she has been gone for 20 years I can close my eyes and see every detail of her house and smell that familiar essence that only emanates from the house of a Grandmother.

Today's entry is the result of reflecting on my Grandomther's house and those unique and beautiful doilies.


Grandmother's Doily - 12x12 compound fractal


~ Lisa

You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/

If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell

You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

If you're interested in learning more of the art of making Doilies check out this book: Treasured Doilies - Crochet Patterns

Sunday, January 16, 2011

2011.017 "A Fractal for Fibonacci"

I am not a numbers person. I repeat - I am NOT a numbers person. However, a comment on one of my recent blog pieces about Fibonacci got me thinking and researching. I've heard of Fibonacci. I mean who hasn't. :o)

So I looked into it and found myself in a strange new land where numbers were actually fascinating. So today's blog piece is my little tribute to Mr. F. and his fascinating numbers. See how many times you can spot his sequence here. This one is called "A Fractal for Fibonacci".

A Fractal for Fibonacci - 12x12 compound fractal
~ Lisa


You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/

If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell

You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Saturday, January 15, 2011

2011.016 "Maya O Maya"

In 2004 I visited the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico (learn more: Moon Yucatan Peninsula (Moon Handbooks)). I was there to visit Cancun and see all the tourist sites I could take in during my 7 day visit. I had no idea what I was in for. Way off the path beaten by a countless number of tourists live a population rich in art, gentle in spirit and able to cook up some of the best food you'll ever taste. You may remember when I posted 2011.007 "Un Rayito de Sol" I shared that my experience in this part of the world forever altered my view of the world and my taste in food and gave me a new perspective on all things hand made and home grown.

I'm certain at the end of this little journey in art and blogging I will look back and find many, many posts affected by the lovely Mayan people and culture. Today's is among the influenced without a doubt.

When I finished it and stepped back from the monitor I immediately thought I should find someone to print this design on some ceramic tiles. New project! Ha. Hey, if you have known me very long at all you know I love little projects and challenges. Probably about 10 years ago I was given the moniker "Princess of Quite a Lot" and it is one of the most appropo nicks that have ever been thrown my direction.

So, here it is. Today's is another compound fractal and is titled "Maya O Maya".


Maya O Maya - 12x12 compound fractal

~ Lisa


You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/

If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell

You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Friday, January 14, 2011

2011.015 "What Do You See?"

Another difficult day for the creative goof in my head. I have a number of big things rolling around in there at the moment so it's no surprise. I have a book to recommend for anyone who works in a creative field or gets "stuck" from time to time. It's called A Whack on the Side of the Head. I can't think of the author at the moment but I'm sure a Google or Amazon search will bring it up quickly. It's a great, easy read and helps with understanding the creative process and how it can be stimulated.

Today's piece of the day is a compound fractal and after staring at it for nearly an hour I resigned myself to posting it without a real name. The funny thing is that after I gave in and decided to ask the question of you, my readers, "what do you see?" I saw something I hadn't before. Funny how that works.

So I've decided that I'm going to take suggestions for the name of this one. The one that makes me laugh the hardest will be the winner. Oh and if you are the one who gave it the winning name I'm going to have a copy of this printed for you. :o)

So here it is...What Do You See?

What Do You See? - 12x12 compound fractal

~ Lisa

You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/


If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell


You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Thursday, January 13, 2011

2011.014 "Antik Batik"

Early last year I posted one of my designs on the website of a company that makes custom water bottle designs. One of the comments for the design was that it looked like Batik, a  form of fabric painting and dying used often in Indonesia and many other countries.

I'll admit, today is the first day I didn't wake up with something in mind. In fact I have been struggling to break free of some negative thinking today that has been keeping me from being very productive. Have you ever noticed how, if allowed to, one negative thought or feeling can derail a whole day?

So back to Batik. I had not heard of this before so I did some research and was I ever impressed with what I learned. So beautiful are the patterns and so unique! Vivid colors, interesting shapes of flowers and even my favorite - swirls. How could I not love it, right?  Ha.

After I selected my color palette for the day and started working with a couple of shapes I began thinking about the beautiful Batik. So, after a bit of a difficult start I am pleased to share today's piece with you. Inspired by it's namesake this one is called "Antik Batik".

Antik Batik - 12x12 compound fractal

There is beauty everywhere and in every thing. Take a moment to look around you today and discover it.

~ Lisa

You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/

If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell

You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

2011.013 "Swirls in Sidewalk Chalk"

My youngest son, who I often refer to as TJ Tornado, has always been able to draw amazing things with sidewalk chalk. I remember once at 3 years old he drew a giant Spongebob on my porch with such amazing detail we had neighbors stopping by all week to check it out. My son has been in treatment for a number of behavioral and psychosocial developmental issues since he was 2 and believe me he is nothing short of a little tornado most days. Each morning as soon as his eyes are open he is talking, singing, and moving 300 mph. I intentionally give myself an hour each morning to sneak around the house and have some coffee before he wakes.

There's something about drawing that brings him down to a very peaceful, relaxed state of mind. It always has. When he draws he hyper-focuses on what he is doing and can do it, virtually silently, for hours on end.

Needless to say I keep my sweet boy fully supplied with sidewalk chalk, crayons, markers, paints and whatever else his little heart desires for his creations.

Yesterday was a particularly difficult day for TJ and me. His routine was disrupted by a snow day which can be a problem for any 7 year old for sure but for my son it's a world-flipping event. World-flipping events are generally not a good thing in our house. Bless his heart he sure tried to make the best of it and by the end of the day things had eased a bit. I even got a random hug and kiss after supper. :o)

So today's piece is dedicated to my little man TJ. I'll never be as awesome as you with sidewalk chalk. Then again, I don't want to be. Your chalk drawings make my face and my heart smile. No matter what you'll always be my sweetie and I am proud of you every single day of your life.


Swirls in Sidewalk Chalk - 12x12 digipaint


~ Lisa


You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/


If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell


You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

2011.011 "My Orange Dream"

I'm sure I've already mention my fondness for the color orange. Nearly everything I create has a bit of orange tucked in somewhere. I had a small fractal fragment I wanted to do something with but was feeling rather minimal when I started working with it. After several color treatments that didn't feel quite right I decided what it needed was a blast of, yep, orange. Ahhh, that's better. There's nothing at all deep or philosophical about today's piece. It's just a little day-brightener called "My Orange Dream".


My Orange Dream - 12x12 compound fractal

If you come closer to your screen...closer...closer. Ok now you may be able to feel some warmth radiating from my orange dream. Either that or radiation from your monitor. Maybe you should sit back now. :o)

~ Lisa


You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/


If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell


You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Monday, January 10, 2011

2011.010 "Beauty for Ashes"

This morning I step aside from my usual silliness and whimsy for some gentle reflection.

A little retrospective: To say that 2009 was a year of great heartache and loss for my family is completely insufficient for the difficulties we endured. So great was our pain that at times it was hard to just breathe; let alone put one foot in front of the other and move forward. Even with only the tiniest of gains in recovery we did survive and as we entered 2010 it promised, if nothing else, to be a year of greater peace and healing. That's exactly what it was too. 365 days of quiet, rest, peace and restoration. There were days when I wondered if we'd ever start to gain ground again but most of the time it was a blessing to just rest and wait for the things to come.

That brings me to 2011 and how, despite it being only the second full week of the year, already there have been some amazing things that have happened. I look back over the past 18 months and see quite clearly the path my little family and I have been walking. We climbed a treacherous mountain and rested in a peaceful valley. Now, it seems, it is at last time for new adventures.

These experiences remind me of the bible passage in Isaiah 61 that says he will give beauty for ashes. My life and the lives of my children were shaken and burned down to the ground. It would have been easy to have given up and stayed there among the ashes of that dark, cold place and believe it would never get any better. However we are not weak in faith, spirit, or heart so we waited patiently knowing we would see brighter days.

Thinking about this journey inspired today's piece which I have named "Beauty for Ashes".


Beauty for Ashes - 12x12 digipaint
Never give up...never give in!

~ Lisa

You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/

If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell

You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Sunday, January 9, 2011

2011.009 "Spinning Lemurs"

Today's piece is pure whimsy and dedicated of all the fun, crazy, off-the-wall, legomaniacal, princess-loving, superhero wannabe munchkins in my life. I have sons 14 and 7 and daughters 23 and 8. I also have 7 nieces and nephews ranging from just entering toddlerhood to highschoolers. Add to that several cousins and dozens of little friends and I am sharing my life with a whole lot of silly most of the time. I love it!

I hope you all have a wonderful and relaxing Sunday and that you have at least one little person in your life who makes you smile.

Spinning Lemurs - 12x12 compound fractal
~ Lisa

You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/

If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell

You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Saturday, January 8, 2011

2011.008 "I See Shapes in Melted Ice Cream"

My friend Angela is preparing her house to go on the market in February. She and her family have worked, and worked, and worked, and WORKED! They've rebuilt, restored, repainted, refloored, and retiled. Pretty much if there's a "re" they've done it to this house. I haven't seen too many pictures but I can only imagine it is looking very much like a new house inside and out and I know their efforts will reward them in the end when they are able to raise their selling price.

Anyway, this is not a home renovating blog, it's an art blog so here's the connection. Last week my friend posted a message to me on facebook with a bit of a challenge. She shared the colors they had chosen to paint the living room and asked if I could create a piece that would be color coordinated to aid in their staging of the house for sale. Since I love a challenge I said heck yes.

Today's entry is the end result of Angela's challenge and is titled "I See Shapes in Melted Ice Cream".

I See Shapes in Melted Ice Cream - 12x12 digipaint

I should not be held responsible for any extra calories consumed today if this makes you crave a hot fudge sundae!

Here's to a spectacular Saturday!

~ Lisa


You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/

If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell

You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Friday, January 7, 2011

2011.007 "Un Rayito de Sol"

Buenos Dias!

Today I awoke with my 2004 trip to the Yucatan Peninsula and the lovely Mayan artisans I met there on my mind. I think we all have special places we have visited, domestic or foreign, that have left such an impression upon us that they become a permanent part of who we are. For me it was the Mayan culture I encountered far away from any tourist zones in the Yucatan. My experiences forever altered my view of the world and my taste in food and gave me a new perspective on all things hand made and home grown.

With all this on my mind it's no wonder that today's piece, a compound fractal, came out with a splash of that influence. I called this one "Un Rayito de Sol" which means "a little ray of sunshine" in Spanish.

Un Rayito de Sol - 12x12 compound fractal
Have a beautiful day!

~ Lisa


You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/

If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell

You are also invited to joing me on facebook :www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Thursday, January 6, 2011

2011.006 "A Jar of Bubbles"

During this morning's creative session I was thinking about some of my past work, particulary "Blown Glass" and "Sweet Release" (both can be seen on my website at http://www.lisacantrell.com/) and the way they came together. When I create something new it takes on a bit of it's own life and sometimes the personality becomes larger than I ever imagined. As I set in with my color scheme in mind what developed was one of those pieces...full of life and a great big personality. Today's digipaint is titled "A Jar of Bubbles".


A Jar of Bubbles - 12x12 digipaint


Here's to noses that tickle and the little things in life that make us giggle.

~ Lisa


You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/

If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell

You are also invited to joing me on facebook:
www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart


Wednesday, January 5, 2011

2011.005 "Mr Rorschach Goes to Mardi Gras"

Day five already! I am having so much fun with my personal challenge that is this blog it hardly feels like a challenge at all. I'll have to remember this day and look back on that last sentence on the days when it does feel like a challenge. Ha!

Mardi Gras isn't until March but today's piece felt so much like that grand celebration it only seems right that I name it as such. With a little nod to the godfather of the ink-blot psych test and a whole lot of whimsy I give you today's painting; "Mr Rorschach Goes to Mardi Gras".


Mr Rorschach Goes to Mardi Gras - 12x12 digipaint

If this in some way has inspired you to party like it's Mardi Gras today just remember it's probably best not to throw beads or undergarments at your boss.

~ Lisa

You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/

If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell

You are also invited to joing me on facebook:
www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

2011.004 "Swirling Vapors"

Most of the fractal art I create are heavy with mulitple layers. For today's piece I set out with a less-is-more frame of mind and ended up with something very simple that manages to be one of my favorites of this project so far. I would like to dedicate this piece to the York College Concert Choir. You all made me smile so much my face hurt and moved me to tears with your amazing performance. Good luck and Godspeed on the rest of your winter tour!

#4 of 365 Digital Paintings is titled Swirling Vapors.

Swirling Vapors - 12x12 fractal
May your day be all you intend it to be!

~Lisa

You can purchase any of these blog pieces printed on canvas and stretched over a 1/4" gallery frame through my new website: http://www.lisacantrell.com/

If you would prefer I also offer printing that is wood mounted and smooth matte laminated. You can order these from my ArtFire studio page online at:  http://www.artfire.com/users/LisaCantrell

You are also invited to joing me on facebook:
www.facebook.com/lisacantrellart