The theme for October's Blissfull ATC Swap was "Dark". From following my writings, you'll know that I'm a "glass-half-full" kinda gal, and I'm basically an optimistic person. I don't decorate for Halloween and really never have. No particular reason...just a fact. I love fall, and have decorated in fall themes in the past (when we lived up North), but tend to lean more toward clean and summery in Florida - no matter the season.The reason I tell you this is because that theme "Dark" was a real challenge for both my partner and me this month! What to do? What to do?
My swap partner this month is Sharon Chapman of Wildflower House. She's been under the weather lately (got the flu from her flu shot!!!), and is being harassed by the local wildlife (bears and a cougar!), so if you have a chance, please visit her blog and tell her you hope she feels better soon. She's a wonderful needleworker and a real inspiration for anyone who enjoys working with threads and beads.
She explained her interpretation to me in her letter, and I think it's genius! One year, she planted an entire garden in white flowers, and when the moonlight shone on it, the whole yard sparkled! This was how she translated her vision into an artist trading card. I think it's fabulous and am so happy and honored to own it! Needlework by Sharon's own, two, talented hands.
She even embellished the envelope she used to mail the card to me! Lord, I was happy just to receive the envelope! Really!!
This is what I did and why...I found a great moonlight/Art Deco/ocean waves image and decided I'd work with it this month. I stippled all over my deep purple cotton fabric in a dark blue, metallic thread and then affixed my image - after I'd added color using fabric paints. Figuring that the stars sparkle even when it's dark outside, I decided that all the light in this card should come from the strength of the woman standing next to the glistening waves.
When I completed that "Dark" card, I really needed to lighten things up for my partner, so I then created a "Light and Airy" card as it's companion. I find great comfort in the thought that whenever there is darkness, there will always again be light.
I took a lovely cotton fabric and stippled a silver metallic thread all over it. Then I added a cheerful image from one of my British cigarette cards, in the form of flowers. A crystal heart, a cluster of ribbon flowers, and a sterling silver fairy to tend to this Light garden and my ATC was complete! There you have it! "Dark" and "Light and Airy" for my friend, Sharon.
I also thought I'd show you one of my ATC storage boxes. I love this one because I can change out the front ATC to see a new one whenever I feel like it! I'm also able to store my available ATCs, pens and slip sheets there, too. It's lucite, and I've had it for years. I might have to go on a search for another soon, though. This one's getting full!
To very talented ladies collide one day to share with each other...what a great s tory behind both cards and greart cards resulted....I love your storage for the too...happy swapping...
ReplyDeleteI always enjoy seeing your ATC swap cards because they are such perfect little works of art. You and your swap partner both did such a wonderful job of interpreting "Dark" and creating a beautiful card.
ReplyDeleteI bet you really enjoy going through all of those ATC cards in your storage box!
Jane
You both did a great job! How refreshing to see interpretations that aren't Halloween (I don't do Halloween) but can still follow the theme. Nice! ; )
ReplyDelete~Michele
I love the white flowers on the black background. I never thought of using a dark background for embroidery.
ReplyDeleteWonderful! do I need to say more
ReplyDeletehugs Wendy
You're so organized. These expressions for these swaps are really so poetic. Sharon is immensely talented, as are you!
ReplyDeleteBrenda
What a FUN swap! Both of your creations are absolutely stunning. :) You both have a wealth of talent. :) Theresa
ReplyDeleteHey Lovely Lady,
ReplyDeleteWow, the card you got is amazing, and I love Sharons story, too. You are such an amazingly generous person......two cards, one dark, one light......unbelievable. I have no idea what to do for November with an open calling. I hope I get your name......tee hee!
Love ya'
Meri
Donna, both of these cards reflect the creative efforts of two very talented ladies. Loved seeing both. White gardens are magical at night. I always try to fill my gardens with plants that have white blooms.
ReplyDeleteLove this idea! ~ sarah
Two very talented artists swapping some great ATCs. I am glad to call you both friends.
ReplyDeleteDebbie
Oh those are just too darn fabulous!!! I would have a hard time with the dark too. hee,hee,hee.
ReplyDeleteOk, ok....now that I see your groovy collection of cards, I have to make you one as you have made me two! (lucky me, hee,hee,hee). :)
xx, shell
Gosh sweetie both yours and Sharon's are so pretty especially when you give the thought behind them! It's so much harder than it sounds to come up with something unique and special when challenged and you scored a 110 like always.
ReplyDeleteLove you....Tracy :)