Trending Theme: Birds of a Feather + Enter to Win a Free Issue

Birds of a Feather Theme
Artist Credit (Top to Bottom, Left to Right): 1- Soraya Nullah, Art Journaling Winter 2013; 2- Loretta Rathert, 400 More Ideas 2013; 3- Mindy Lacefield, Somerset Studio May/June 2010; 4- Julie Valentine, Art Journaling Spring 2013; 5- Amy Melious, Somerset Digital Studio Autumn 2013; 6 – Pam Carriker,  Artists’ Café Vol. 6;  7- Wendy Brightbill, Somerset Studio Gallery Winter 2013; 8- Joy Northrop, Stampers’ Sampler February/March 2012; 9- Colette Copeland, Somerset Studio Gallery Winter 2013; 10-  Bridgette Guerzon Mills, Artists’ Café Vol. 6; 11- Pam Carriker, Somerset Apprentice Spring 2013;12- Thespoena McLaughlin, Somerset Studio Gallery Winter 2013

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Since last month’s themed blog post on Whimsical Silhouetted Women was such a hit, I wanted to ensure that this month’s trending theme was just as (if not more) enticing to artists and readers alike! And what’s more to love than this simple yet symbolic staple: the classic image of a bird, which represents freedom and flight –  a reflection of our creative release in art.

We’ve compiled a collection of some of our most treasured paintings, projects, cards, and creations spotlighting different portrayals of our flighty and feathered friends. Enjoy an excerpted quote or artsy tip below, and if you want to read more, click on the image or link for full project details:

 

Birds of a Feather Theme

“Journals are what you make them. To me, they are precious records of my life that will get passed down to future generations.” – Soraya Nulliah, Art Journaling

 

 

 

Birds of a Feather ThemeTip: Add pearl and ribbon to any card for instant interest and texture.

– 400 More Ideas 

 

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme

“For me, painting is a nostalgic descent into my childhood where playtime, dolls, and drawing took me into worlds of limitless creativity and mind wanderings.”

– Mindy Lacefield, Somerset Studio 

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme“The big trick to my journaling process is that I journal in 5-10 minute spurts at a time…I don’t do any of my pages in one sitting; instead they evolve bit by bit over time.” – Julie Valentine, Art Journaling

 

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme

“Life is inspiring. Inspiration calls for expression. Expression, in the form of what we create, holds the power to ripple out indefinitely.”

– Amy Melious, Somerset Digital Studio

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme

“I think sometimes the best pages are created when we work intuitively, without over-thinking things.” – Pam Carriker, Artists’ Café

 

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme

Mixed-media tip: “Cut out words from a vintage book, stitch onto a piece of muslin, and adhere to your piece with mod podge.”

– Wendy Brightbill, Somerset Studio Gallery

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme

Stamp dots and adhere torn colored tissue papers to a card for a bright mixed-media effect. – Stampers’ Sampler

 

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme“Birds have been constant in my artwork. I’ve drawn them, painted them, stitched them, collaged with them, taken a long break from them, and lately I’ve been taking huge artistic license and dreaming them up.”

– Colette Copeland, Somerset Studio Gallery

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme

“The first time I picked up a brush and began painting in encaustics, I felt like I had arrived home. There is a definite seductive lure to working in wax, perhaps because it is so sensory – from the warm smell of the melting wax to the organic textures created in the wax.”

– Bridgette Guerzon Mills, Artists’ Café

 

Birds of a Feather ThemeArt journaling tip: “Use mutiple stamped images layered over each other for an interesting look.” – Pam Carriker, Somerset Apprentice

 

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme“This flying swallow is meant to represent freedom – freedom to be yourself and to dream. – Thespoena McLaughlin, Somerset Studio Gallery

 

 

 

FREE Magazine Giveaway

[This giveaway has ended.]

To Enter: From the grid of images above, pick your favorite bird image and explain why by commenting below!

We will pick 3 lucky winners to receive your choice of our favorite titles: Somerset Digital Studio, the digital version of Somerset Studio, or Somerset Studio Gallery.

 Deadline to enter: Monday, Oct. 21st

*Winners will be contacted via e mail


Posted: Monday, September 16th, 2013 @ 12:26 pm
Categories: Art Journaling, Contests and Giveaways, Mixed-Media Art.
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , .
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210 Responses to “Trending Theme: Birds of a Feather + Enter to Win a Free Issue”

  1. i like the piece by Bridgette Guerzon Mills, Artists’ Café for the simplicity of a bird silhouette. It always intrigues me when a simple line or shadow conveys so much.

  2. My favorite bird is Mindy Lacefield’s. Her feelings about creating her artwork really resonate with me! And I really love her fun and whimsical style :)

  3. Yvette Shoemaker says:

    My favorite was the one Mindy Lacefield has because I too feel my childhood coming through my art journaling.

  4. Pamela Moore says:

    Amy Melious’ hand and bird image. Lately, I love the combination of photographs and hand-drawn or written elements in the same piece. The colors in her work are very soothing and simple. So many journals are blindingly colorful, it’s nice to see a page that leaves some open space and celebrates earth tones.

  5. Heather Hall says:

    While they are all equally wonderful in their own respect, #3 – Mindy Lacefield gets my vote for a fav. The sweet innocence of her bird sticks out in the flock.

  6. Diana Novoa says:

    The primitiveness of Mindy Lacefield’s rendering is sweet, and the colors are bright and cheery.

  7. Ginny Markley says:

    Collette Copeland’s bird image really intrigues me because she states that lately she has “been taking huge artistic license and dreaming them up.” I love the originality!

  8. Pauline Clark says:

    I like Bridgette Guerzon Mills, Artists’ Café bird…the one in the bottom left corner. Why? I’ve had a fetish for black bird images and have been collecting them for a while. On stamps, on scrapbook papers, magazine images…I even have a hand-carved stamp and origami raven my friend made me. (And then, in the midst of my collecting, weirdly, an artist acquaintance asked me to write her a poem about a raven for a multi-media art piece she was doing. And so I did! These birds are meant to be for some reason.

  9. Barbara M says:

    I am a big fan of Pam Carriker’s work. Both of her birds illustrate Pam’s wonderful use of layers to create interest and depth.

  10. Amber Anne says:

    I love Bridgette Guerzon Mills black bird! It is my favorite because I love the sheer beauty of a simple image in this piece. It amazes me how just a shape can immediately tell us that it is a bird and because of it’s simpleness so much emotion can be placed upon it.

  11. Annie Lindsey says:

    I like the first Art Journaling bird by Soraya Nulliah. That bird is so unique and proud looking. Proud to be different. Like me.

  12. Marsha Lodge says:

    Pam Carriker- her bird looks peaceful and I need that right now. My mom (age 84) was just diagnosed with breast cancer. This should not happen at this stage of her life.

  13. Nicole Maki says:

    I think I like Pam Carriker’s the best as her style is such a beautiful mixture of simple (pencil line drawings) and complex layers and shading.

    It always really speaks to me and makes me want to hone my craft.

  14. I like the piece by Mindy best because it is a chubby, more whimsical bird which tend to attract me more, plus the colors too. Thanks for offering this awesome giveaway.

  15. Emily Nilson says:

    I like the yellow bird by Pam Carriker. I just like the colors.

  16. Sharon says:

    I also like Amy’s hand and bird image. I love birds and am always touched that they are sometimes willing to sit on a human hand!

  17. April Lopez says:

    That’s hard. I love Pam Carrikers because I love the wing so much but I also love Mindy Lacefields because of the childlike innocence of her work.

  18. Elizabeth Kolter says:

    I also like Mindy Lacefield little bluebird from Somerset Studio. It reminds me of my son, my little bluebird of happiness. :)

  19. Occassionally I stop drawing cats and switch to other animals. Thanks for giving me inspiration! I like the chubbyish, and quirky birds the best!

  20. Agnieszka says:

    My faworite bird is Amy Melious.I love vintage :)

  21. Lora says:

    I love Amy Melious’ bird and hand. Simple beauty!

  22. Joanie Hoffman says:

    I like Bridgette’s best. It’s simple and moody.Thanks for the giveaway!

  23. Lisa says:

    I love the mixed media tip from Wendy Brightbill.

  24. Victoria says:

    I’m drawn to Amy Melious piece. The bird has such an innocent trusting gaze. So tiny and sweet in the open welcoming hand. The elegant handwriting in the background adds to this peaceful scene.

  25. Kate Webb says:

    I love Joy Northrup’s mixed media bird. I love the colors, the use of different materials and the inspiring quote behind it.

  26. Vita says:

    In our EverDay lives we send forth Pam Carriker’s Color and Love through the silent messages we leave behind in our photography, paintings, journalings, and other creative expressions…..It is all expressed in our own emotional layers that that represent the flight and freedom of a bird’s wings…..I love the depth of layers.

  27. Robin Rose says:

    The yellow bird by Pam Carriker. The colors and collaging are beautiful. The picture makes me smile.

  28. Diane says:

    Amy Melious is my favorite. Everytime we go to Paris we feed the birds in front of Notre Dame and this so reminded of those times.
    DianeD
    dmd@dainis.com

  29. roc says:

    i love joy northrop’s bird, as well as the sentiment that is written. beautiful!

  30. Jessica S. says:

    I’m being drawn to the green and yellow bird by Pam Carriker from Artist’s Cafe – I also happen to like the quote that she put with it about not over-thinking things.

  31. StacySix says:

    So hard to pick! My favorite is the one by Amy Melious. It’s so delicate and fragile and full of life.

  32. Jane says:

    My favorite is Mindy Lacefield’s precious little blue bird. It simply makes me smile and reminds me of simple, sweet days of my childhood!

  33. Lisa Henneke says:

    My fav is Bridgette’s …who doesnt love a blackbird….

  34. Colette Copeland’s birdie – I love it!!

  35. Lucie Hale says:

    The Pam Carriker image found in Somerset Apprentice is my favorite because I do a lot of art journaling and Pam’s approach of multiple stamped images layered on top of one another is my most used technique.

  36. Nancy Johnston says:

    Mindie Lacefield’s, Tim’s Sally, hands down. It’s whimsy makes me smile every time I see it. And my second reaction is wanting to go pick up my journal and paint. Love her style!

  37. Debbie Lugg says:

    Hard to pick-I love birds and these are all so cute. My favorite is the one with 400 More Ideas. I like the deminsional look.

  38. Sue Berry says:

    Bridget’s Guerzon Mills for me – love the purity and simplicity.

  39. Jani Howe says:

    My choice is the piece by Amy Melious. It speaks to me of the connection between humans and nature,in all its forms. I am more drawn to natural subjects in my work than depicting people. All my life, nature has spoken to me in whatever I was doing artistically. Even my doodles, at my desk job, were of leaves and birds!

  40. Stella Negri says:

    I like Pam Carriker’s bird.. this kind of art is not still in Italy wellknown.. thanks for be so inspiring..

  41. Phyllis Yearick says:

    My favorite is the one by Amy Melious. Something about the wary expression on the bird’s face just touches my heart. Does the outstretched hand offer comfort and security? Can a fragile bird trust a human being? This picture definitely tells a story.

  42. Thalia Kottke says:

    My favorite is #10 because I love crows and ravens and even if it isn’t one it looks like one. I also love other birds too.

  43. Anne Rowe says:

    I love Julie Valentine’s sweet little bird and her helpful advice. I’m just starting art journaling and I think this method might work for me!

  44. Diana says:

    I like the bird by Amy Melious. My very first pet was a small bird and when I opened his cage, he came out and sat on my hand just like Amy’s art.

  45. Vicki Johnson says:

    I love Pam Carriker’s second piece. It is the the layering of the images, those colors and I especially love the heart and the wing. That combination gives my heart and desires wings!

  46. Su Hall says:

    I rather like the next to the last one, by Pam Carriker, in Somerset Apprentice. There are so, so many different stamps and other ways to make an image. But, when the images are so cool you are not afraid to add them all, all over, in layers, in abundance, to a layout, it’s pure Nirvana! LOL
    Thank you for a chance to win!
    Good Luck to All!

    Su

  47. Shari Czerwinski says:

    My favorite is the flying swallow by Thespoena McLaughlin. It is beautiful and who doesn’t love lace?

  48. viktorya says:

    “I think sometimes the best pages are created when we work intuitively, without over-thinking things.” – Pam Carriker, Artists’ Café

    Layers offer a chance to dream into the space – nice work! Viktorya

  49. Mary H says:

    My favorite is Mindy Lacefield’s!! So cute!!

  50. Diana F. says:

    My favorite is Mindy Lacefield’s cute little baby bird because of the color choices she uses and it’s innocent, whimsical look.

  51. Adriana says:

    Soraya Nulliah’s bird on a branch from Art Journaling is my favorite. I love her quote about how journals are “precious records for future generations.”

  52. Sharrie Patterson says:

    I chose the first one by Soraya Nulliah. I like the graceful simple lines. And it looks like it has alot of texture, I like that.

  53. Colleen says:

    No.5 Life in Inspiring!
    Yes it is! Everywhere i look i find inspirations for my next artwork…
    Today; the moring fog, the boat floating on the misty lake, the daisys i picked to place in a vase on my desk at work, the smile from a coworker when i helped her, the pretty color lavender scarf a friend was wearing, the multible colors of greens, reds & oranges in my salad lunch!!! practice mindfullness it’s everywhere!

  54. Christine says:

    Pam Carriker’s bird is my favourite…I like the shape and the layered look of the picture!

  55. Chrissie H says:

    I love – Bridgette Guerzon Mills, Artists’ Café. It’s such a striking image that has a deep sense of peacefulness about it

  56. Val says:

    I like the heart with wings of Pam Carriker’s. It is the type of picture I would tend to gravitate to.

  57. Kari says:

    I like the bird by Mindie Lacefield. I like the quirky playfulness of her art.

  58. esther says:

    my favorite is Mindy Lacefields ,tendress…

  59. esther says:

    I love it …Mindy Lacefield

  60. Pat Hughes says:

    I love Amy Melious’ bird. Her clear, crisp lines, beautiful restful colours, inspiring and insightful quoate and overall theme comes together to create not only an inspiring piece but a beautiful work of art. I’d happily hang a print of it in my home. Just beautiful!

  61. Aimeslee Winans says:

    My favorite is Joy Holder Northrop’s Learn to Wish birdie, because I like her style and I like the tissue paper technique used.

  62. kathyS says:

    My favorite is- Bridgette Guerzon Mills’ encaustic, Artist’s Cafe. Simple, shadowy and beautiful

  63. Jeanann says:

    My favorite is Pam Carriker’s. I love the colors and the stamps she used to create this .. everything blends so well .. Beautiful!

  64. María Luisa says:

    I Love the yellow bird from Pam Carriker!

  65. LauraBean says:

    Hard to pick, but I love the heart tucked near the wing of Loretta Rathert’s bird.

  66. HawaiianLibrarian says:

    Love this simple idea to “Add pearl and ribbon to any card for instant interest and texture.” and may I say add a rhinestone bling or touch of glitter for shine’, also.
    I really like this multi dimensional multi media bird from- 400 More Ideas.

  67. I love Thespoena McLaughlin’s swallow. The ink it’s drawn in is my favorite color and both the background and the swallow itself suggest not only the freedom to soar where one will but also the delicacy and strength of lace.

  68. DruT says:

    Mindy Lacefield is my fav. I love the expressiveness in that little face. The colors, textures and layeres of pattern are wonderful and invite you to look closely.

  69. Karen Schroeder says:

    I love #9 by Joy Northrop! The fun, whimsical feel of her bird makes me smile! Great sentiment also!

  70. Mel H says:

    I like Thespoena’s because of the texture and color, and the embroidery work!

  71. Kath Hobson says:

    My favourite is the swallow by Thespoena McLaughlin, because to me swallows symbolize Spring. Here in Australia, when I see the first swallow I know Spring is on its way, they always make me smile.

  72. Carolyn Williams says:

    Soraya Nulliah’s bird is whimsical and sweet, but her statement about journals being passed on to others is what really caught my eye!

  73. B. Totten says:

    Love them all!! But the bird that caught my eye was, Art Journaling. The colors, layers and the way the bird struts his teal feathers makes me smile!

  74. Linda Jo says:

    I love Mindy Lacefield’s bird…. the child-like, whimsy of it is so adorable… really inspires me!

  75. joy says:

    Mindy Lacefield’s blue bird is my pick! I love the whimsy of this one.

  76. 2amscrapper says:

    I love Pam’s blue bird with the endless feathers. I like the layering she created.

  77. Jane T says:

    The flying swallow is my favorite because it is done on a piece of old looking lace.

  78. Wendy Brightbill’s bird. I love her use of colors and textures. I have her journal that was featured in Somerset Magazine. She inspired me to experiment in my journals more with cardboard and using more textures. Her colors are always bright and happy!

  79. Karen W says:

    I like Bridgette Guerzon Mills, Artists’ Café as it’s such a simple yet stunning image. Though I know very little about using encausitics, I am totally inspired by this piece.

  80. susan salyer says:

    My faorite is Soraya Nulliah I so agree journals are precious parts of ourselves. True to me anyway. The little birdie is so strong and brave looking. Beautiful.
    susan s

  81. jacqueline says:

    I love the one by Pam Carriker, Artists’ Café. It’s so true! Sometimes you have to let go of your own expectations and those of others and just go with your intuition and what feels right!

  82. I love the last one by Thespoena, because it has some of the elements I love most: antique textiles, the color blue, and embroidery.

  83. Aimee says:

    Mine is Bridgette Guerzon Mills bird. I also work with encaustics and feel that she explains about them.

  84. Darlene D says:

    I like the swallow by Thespoena McLaughlin because of the simplicity and color combinations.

  85. My favorite is the bird creation by Amy Melious. I love the neutral colors, the handwritten background and the simplicity. It’s a great example that it doesn’t need a lot of elements or embellishments to create a beautiful piece of artwork.

  86. Beckie Holso says:

    All lovely creations but the brightly colored bird from Stampers Sampler caught my eye… I love layering tissue papers and napkin images in my artwork.

  87. Lynn Brown says:

    Amy Melious, the image is inspirational in addition to quote. words to live by.

  88. Michelle says:

    This is very difficult because each evokes a different mood. I love #7 by Wendy B. The colors and silhouette create a playful mood reminiscent of Spring. #9 by Colette C. is fantastic for its mixed media which I can not get enough of. I love the artistry of the body of the bird mixed with the photo cutout for the head. I am a sucker for anything mixed media. I like the color choices in this as well.

  89. judy h. says:

    Pam Karriker’s Artist’s Cafe bird speaks to me with words both on the image and off. The color of this bird speaks of its happiness to greet each day with song. Birds always know what to do, when to do it and are always on time. Why do we know that? They sing. They know no other way to be and are happy doing the things they do. How do we know they are happy? They sing. Birds are always busy; eating, bathing, building their nests, hunting food, tending to their young and they love being busy. I know they do because I hear them sing!

  90. Shannon Chomanczuk says:

    Judy Valentine. I love her piece and I too journal in bursts of time. With a newborn And a 4 year old that is how it gets done.

  91. I like Thesponea McLaughlin because of the simplicity of the image and the meaning she stated. Thanks for the chance to win.

  92. Barb says:

    Amy Melious … Bridgette G. Mills… So hard to choose… I guess #1 for me is Amy Melious. I love image transfers and this carries that same beautiful near-perfect feeling. Love it.

  93. Ann Jobes says:

    I like the bird in the 3rd row, middle position. The reason is because I appreciate all the colour, especially the purple silhouette, a technique that I’m now inspired to try.

  94. Sue says:

    It’s so hard to choose just one! They all are beautiful, but since I only get to choose one, I will go with Pam Carriker’s from Apprentice magazine, the eleventh down, for it’s layers, texture and colors. I love it!

  95. Kat says:

    I’m in love with Mindy Lacefield’s bird. So adorable!

  96. Ann Anderson says:

    I like number 8 by Joy Northorp. She has just the right mix of colors and it attracted my attention the second I saw it.

  97. Melanie Mason says:

    I love the one by Amy Melious. It shows inspiration in such a beautiful way. Everything about this reflects beauty and the need to inspire.

  98. Christi says:

    Tough to choose but I’d have to say I was drawn to Pam Carriker’s bird – I love the writing and her style speaks to me :)

  99. Jane says:

    Everyone’s artwork is amazing and gorgeous in it’s own way, but my favorite is Mindy Lacefield’s bird!! I love her artwork because its so colorful, cute & fun! I relate so much with her quote because I feel it’s SO important for us adults to continue to revisit our inner child & play & create frequently! It’s good for our soul. Thank you.

  100. Terri W. says:

    All these images are inspiring, but my favorite is Thespoena McLaughlin’s embroidered swallow. it combines three of my very favorite things – a lovely bird, vintage lace and the color turquoise.

  101. I love 8- Joy Northrop, Stampers’ Sampler February/March 2012. It is a happy and vibrant piece of art. I love the colors of the bird and the yellow heart on it’s breast and the party hat. It has a great sentiment, which basically says learn to be happy in the moment. Accept things as they come.

    I love all of your inspiring magazines! They are like a rich dessert you want to savor. Thanks for the chance to win.

  102. All of the images that we see of these wonderful birds in Art are terrific. My favorite however is Mindy Lacefield’s because her childhood memories really mean something to me.

  103. Lisa M says:

    Wendy’s bird is really speaking to me; I love that it is more of an abstract than a realistic bird and the colors are so beautiful and bright.

  104. jennifer juniper says:

    Lots of terrific art and tipscto choose from! Ms. Valentine’s piece is my choice both for her sweet virdie and for her tip.

    It is one of the most useful tips I’ve discovered along the way and it applies to all different kinds of art. Work in bits and layers. I love to immerse myself in an art project, but there’s LIFE that has to happen. So short blocks work. And above all, if a project doesn’t look quite right, it just needs another layer. LOL~it’s good advice for art and life. :-)

  105. Janet Gray says:

    I like Mindy Lacefield’s the most. Every time I see it (I thumb through my Summerset mags for inspiration and relaxation) it gives my heart the equivalence of a giggle. I so admire the child-like innocence of her work.

  106. Becca says:

    The digital bird in Amy Melious’ work is delicate, detailed and speaks for itself. It’s powerful–and I like it very much for it’s inspiration

  107. Michelle Patricia Anders says:

    I like Amy Melious, Somerset Digital Studio and her quote explains it all “Life is inspiring. Inspiration calls for expression. Expression, in the form of what we create, holds the power to ripple out indefinitely.” and the image is me ‘plain & simple’ and yet says so much.

  108. I love the bird Amy Melious created. The subject matter of a hand holding a delicate bird and the vintage feel of the sepia-toned graphic is very appealing. Gorgeous!

  109. Carol Pantaleo says:

    I like the transformed tissue paper bird from The Stampers’ Sampler Feb/Mar 2012 issue. The colors are so bright and beautiful. It puts a smile on your face! Great job!

  110. Noelle Mena says:

    Oh my! Having to pick a Favorite! I am not a fan of ‘favorites’ as I think everything has a place. Art is no different. All will relate or communicate to someone. For me if I had to say which spoke to me more it would be the 1st one by Soraya Nulliah. I was drawn to it. But I love all of them :)

  111. I am attracted to Amy Melious, in Somerset Digital Studio. The bird jumps from the page with the delicate type background. The shape and placement of the hand welcomes me as it welcomes the bird.

  112. Lacy Thomas says:

    Mindy Lacefield – her images are sweetly innocent and beautifully simple.

  113. Karen S. says:

    The image of the bird on a person’s fingertips is the most alluring; it draws me into thinking of the relationship between myself and the birds that feed in my yard and perch on our property–much artistic vision springs from God’s amazing creation.

  114. Elaine Taylor says:

    Pam Carriker’s method of layering colors, patterns and textures is what appeals most to me. All of the birds are fabulous!

  115. Mary Anne E says:

    I am drawn to the crow. Crows have been misunderstood throughout history. Crows are not what they seem, they are highly intelligent and social creatures. I can relate to the misperception and misunderstanding since those are very human traits as well. The crow embodies humanity to me.

  116. Kelly says:

    Amy Melious’ bird in hand jumped out at me immediately. There is such emotion in the image and I love the script background.

  117. Diana B says:

    I have to say Mindy Lacefield, Somerset Studio = it is such a whimsical bird – it just makes me smile.

  118. Susan Sprague says:

    Amy Melious – it’s about relationships, being committed and inspired to evolve.

  119. NancyW says:

    I like Mindy Lacefield’s the best because it is so whimsical, I’m very drawn to that style. But I do like all the others too, I love everything to do with birds!

  120. Connie Minnich says:

    I liked almost all of the bird images but my absolute favorite was the second one – the layered bird with the pearl eye. Layered paper and watercolors are two of my favorite mediums and put together like that – well – what else can I say! Except the pearl was the perfect addition. I may just have to make one of my own to have on my night table. Thanks for sharing.

  121. Maggie M says:

    My favorite is the piece by Amy Melious. I love her quote, the neutral colors and the handwritten background. Truly a stunning, yet fairly simple work of art.

  122. Mary Brack says:

    I really like the collage and the mixed media background of the first one by Soraya Nullah.

  123. Margaret says:

    First of all I loved all of them, birds have been my hobby for years, bird watching in particular. Also sewing birds on thing and making all forms of bird art,
    Thanks, Margaret

  124. Liz Cherry says:

    My favorite is Mindy Lacefield’s blue bird. I love her work! It is so whimsical and childlike. To watch her paint is amazing!

  125. Tina W. says:

    My favorite is #9 – I love the ephemeral body.

  126. Walter Silva says:

    Loving Mindys blue bird collage painting!

  127. I like Pam Carriker’s bird. It has a glow about it and uses colors that I like. It shows life alive.

  128. Mara Makkay says:

    I am partial to Pam Carricker’s art because there’s always so much to “dig thru” as she layers upon layers. This gives her work the textures I crave and keeps me busy looking for hidden elements.

  129. Ruth adam says:

    Amy melious’ bird in hand is my favorite because I just experienced holding a hummingbird in my hand to free it from a spider web. A beautiful site as it flew away.

  130. Colette Copeland presents a very fresh approach .

  131. dianarose says:

    I choose Amy Melious’ image. The feeling I have when looking at it is one of tenderness .

  132. Gloria says:

    Hard to select because such an impressive selection but I’m going with Mindy Lacefield’s whimsical blue bird. I think its the “look” it the bird’s eye and the red dots.

  133. Dawn Branston says:

    Amy Melious’ image evokes nostalgia, softness, and a feeling of tenderness to the creatures around us. The brightness in the birds eye, belies the muted feel of the work.

  134. Terry says:

    I like Mindy’s birdie. It makes me smile out loud!

  135. Valerie says:

    I’m a firm believer in the freedom to be yourself so the Flying Swallow is my top pick. The imagery is lovely with the beautiful blue of the bird against the off white lace. Even if the artist hadn’t expressed her meaning behind the art work, I would have know.

  136. Jackie says:

    I love Colette Copeland’s bird because it has a playfulness to it and makes me feel happy! “)

  137. mary caponera says:

    Pam Carriker’s bird has a lovely combination of colors and line that appeals to me.

  138. brenda says:

    Amy Melious soft sepia tones, the bird and human interaction, the writing in the background, these all are pleasing to me.

  139. Sherri says:

    I love Amy Melious’ bird–it is simple, clean and such a delicate image. However, I really love the life and energy of Pam Carriker’s yellow bird, as well. So cheerful–a tough call!

  140. Laura says:

    Pam’s Yellow Bird sang to me! What a sweetie! Loved her composition and color positioning.
    Kind Regards!

  141. Star says:

    Pick just one….nearly impossible. But seeing you must, it’s Pam Carriker’s stamped bird for Somerset Apprentice. I love Pam’s style and the colors on this one are just my style (one of them anyway).

  142. Joyce says:

    I choose No. 8 because I like the saying together
    with the bird and what is suggests…makes me ‘feel’
    happy and positive.

  143. Sharon says:

    I love the blue outline of the swallow by Thespoena McLaughlin firstly because I love blue and the antique look or feeling with the ecru lace underneath. Also like her thinking that we all have freedom to create what speaks to us!

    Thank You for this opportunity!

  144. sandy kortan says:

    I love the bird by Colette Copeland because it reminds me of the youthfulness of my grandkids anad their drawings. Free of inhibitions and youthful. Thanks for opportunity to win a magazine.

  145. Teresa says:

    I like both #3 Mindy Lacefield and #11 Pam Carriker

  146. Susan says:

    All the bird images are stunning. But if I’ve to choose a favorite it would be 8 Joy Northrop’s Stamper’s Sampler Feb/March2012. It’s colors are so bright and happy.

  147. Elaine Allen says:

    I love Amy Melious’s bird in hand! I love the feeling of trust the little bird seems to convey.

    Elaine Allen

  148. kathryn tregler says:

    I especially like # 3. This wee bird has a certain sweetness about her that is very appealing to me.

  149. Gill says:

    I like Joy Northrop’s bird best. The colours are beautiful, & the composition is interesting – the inner frame & the subtle outer background. Also the quote is inspiring.

  150. Michele says:

    I like them all for different reasons-but what’s a girl to do I have to pick one!!
    Amy Melious piece is just so real peacefully serene and the simplicity of it make it so beautiful!!!

  151. Carol says:

    I like Mindy Lacefield’s bird a lot. I feel identified with this “childish” traces because I’m a little bit of childish. I love colors, love these spontaneous lines because when you are a child you just enjoy drawing without prejudice, you don’t try to satisfy other else’s preference.

  152. Stephanie Hallit says:

    Mindy Lacefield’s bird is my favorite. I love her use of color and design, with the sweet innocence and wonder of her creation. Mindy’s talent is amazing, and how she created such a complex, yet inspiring bird image. I am compelled to ponder what this little bird might have to say.

  153. Retta says:

    If you knew me, you wouldn’t have to ask. I have an artist crush on Mindy Lacefield. I adore each and every one of her characters. I think it may have something to do with childlike innocence she portrays in her projects. You see, I still believe in fairy tales.

  154. Helen Harper says:

    I love number 10- Bridgette Guerzon Mills. It shows how expressive an art piece can be using a few colours and black to convey meaning.

  155. Candy says:

    Amy Melious is my artist of choice – I see this little bird as portraying two meanings. It can be perceived as shyly making a new friend, or outgrowing its surroundings and poised on the brink of flying away to begin a new life! Either way it speaks to me of innocence, the fleeting processes of nature, and attachment to kindred spirits.

  156. Audri says:

    My favorite bird is by Wendy Brightbill, because the image is more abstract than the other pix, & also the bright colors are my favorites, the picture shows more creativity in my opinion. I do collage & it speaks my language.

  157. Rita Summers says:

    I love the ‘bird in the hand’ artwork by Amy Melious … and her statement that ‘life is inspiring’ really resonates! Art is like breathing to me, so my life has to be expressed in art, as Amy says … =)

  158. Maura Ghizzoni says:

    I love them all! Particularly drawn to Bridgette Guerzon Mills image. The contrasts of dark & light, are stunning, conjuring a feeling of depth & mystery to me. I feel curious to explore encaustic work.

  159. Carola Bartz says:

    I love Mindy Lacefield’s bird – it’s young, trusting and confident all at the same time. It touches my heart in its simplicity.

  160. Kara says:

    I like #5 – Amy Meliou’ bird with the hand. I usually like very colorful images, but there was something about the realism of this one that really drew me in. Absolutely beautiful.

  161. Susan Quaglia says:

    I like the image by Amy Melious. The bird has such an innocent, trusting look in its eye. And you know what they say…a bird in the hand……

  162. Mary Jo Agles says:

    Sorayer’s “Proud Mary” & Mindy’s “Chicken Little” scurrying after anyone who will listen, give me smiles for the emotion you feel instantly upon viewing, however, I find Bridgett Mills’ capture of fear in the night more intriguing. You feel the night, the dark, and the depth of what her bird senses

  163. Ton L says:

    I love the brightness of Pam Carriker’s yellow images I think that all birds would aspire to a dress-up wardrobe of bright colours at least once a week!

  164. Margriet says:

    Adore the bird of Wendy Brightbill. Her surname could be the name of the bird. The bird is bright, colourfull and says handmade. Love that.

  165. Helen Reed says:

    Image 5 gives freedom to the free.

  166. carole u says:

    Sooo loving Soraya’s birdie from Art Journaling..Not an easy choice, yet her “attitude” captured and charmed me immediately . I wish I were able to sing her song.

  167. Carolyn says:

    Somerset Digital Studio’s Amy Melious bird on a hand reminded me of my sister who raised an injured baby bird. She even chopped up worms to feed the baby. After recovery she took the bird outside, it flew around her, landed on her hand (as if to say thank you) then flew off to live it’s new life. A Disney sort of story!

  168. Pam Rasher says:

    My fav is by Amy Melious, so peaceful.

  169. Suzy Tenace says:

    I love Mindy Lacefield’s little blue bird. The bird just looks so adorable with his oversized head. He almost looks “lost” somehow- like he is looking for something he lost. It touches me because I was an artist for years & I stopped, I was “lost” too. I kept looking for something to heal & when I realized it was art, I awoke somehow. So this little guy reminds me of myself, lost & looking. I also love her use of the bright cheeful blue. I think that color blue is a happy blue, a hopeful blue. I also love her use of texture in the backgroud. Great job Wendy! :)

  170. Marnie Blum says:

    I love Colette Copeland’s imagined bird. I love the way she used ephemera pieces and drew in the rest allowing thee background layers to shine through.

  171. kathleen gaskell-blankenship says:

    I like Amy Melious’ bird in hand. It is like something out of a dream and the word behind it remind me of the memories of that moment that would echo back

  172. Sue says:

    Amy Melious ….. the little sparrow in her hand with the letterpress as a background …. I had something to create with a Raven and that inspired me … my piece went together so fast once I saw an inspiration and it doesn’t have a sparrow, but 2 crows which look like Ravens sitting watching the sun rise in my front yard along with some of Poe’s “Nevermore” as part of the background. Funny how that happens sometimes

  173. Gail Bassett says:

    My favorite is the bird by Soraya Nulliah. I love the pert expression on its face and its bright colors.

  174. Debbie Kaste says:

    I like Amy Melious’ bird in the hand. Very peaceful and natural looking. Gorgeous!!!

  175. Percilla G says:

    I liked Pam’s journaling image. I loved the colors and love anything with hearts

  176. Anita T. says:

    I like the flying swallow because of the two color contrast.

  177. Julie DeTorre says:

    The Mindy Lacefield is adorable. Sweet and whimsical.

  178. Elaine says:

    I love the last bird for Somerset Studio Gallery. It combines two elements I work in, lace, and thread, or ink, not quite sure if the bird is stitched or not. I also like the simplicity of the image and the quote about freedom. As an artist I am always trying to find my own creative voice. I constantly work at allowing myself to be free of judgement during my creative process, and try to remember that the process is also part of my growth.

  179. Louise Marie says:

    My favorite bird is Mindy Lacefield’s.It is full of the confidence of a child when she knows joy is hers. The whimsical spirit exudes even to the tatoo on its wing. An unexpected smile surfaces on my face as i watch.

  180. Carmen Wing says:

    Bridgette Guerzon Mills bird is my favourite. Encaustic seems so magical and texturally gorgeous, something I’d love to try. The bird itself is just beautiful in it’s simplicity.

  181. Janice Burchell says:

    I have always admired Mindy Lacefields works. They are fresh, fun and she creates from her inner child ..seeming to always create a fluent work that is recognizably hers as an artist. This to me..is a beautiful thing. However, I think all the birds are beautiful!

  182. Cheri Deardorff says:

    As a sign language teacher, I am always drawn to hand images. #5, by Amy Melious, is very delicate and ephemeral. Very striking in it’s simplicity and color palette.

  183. Diane Millican says:

    I love Pam Carrickers yellow bird as the colors she uses are not ones I feel comfortable using. Will now try and see what I can create.

  184. Debra Gibson says:

    I love the layered piece by Pam Carriker ! I love the way she blends her colors! I also enjoy layering when I work on my journals. Thanks for the chance to win! I love all of these magazines!
    Thanks Somerset!!!

  185. Teresa Willis says:

    I love the flying swallow by Thespoena McLaughlin, my heart twanged when I saw it, the antiqued lace, the embroidery and implied movement of the bird combined is stunning, also the quote inspired me as well. Thanks for this chance to win, and thank you for all your inspiring mags!,

  186. Vicki Wyatt Davison says:

    I love the Pam Carriker piece because of the beautiful blue hues, and the relationship of the bird to the heart. My niece owns a bakeshop in Ft. Collins, CO called The Little Bird Bakeshop and her little bird color is a beautiful aqua. She named the shop for her late mother, who loved birds. I would love to have a print of this to give her!

  187. Love the cute little blue bird of Mindy Lacefield.
    It’s so cute! :)

  188. Lori Jane Mittlestadt says:

    I love the fearlessness of Wendy Brightbill’s bird. It isn’t afraid to show off it’s colors as if to say, “Anything matches if it brings a smile to your face when you’re wearing it.” I want to dress just like that.

  189. Kathy S says:

    wow these are all so sweet – love Pam Carriker -artists cafe-her bird- the colours and journalling look like an old/vintage bird book I used to own- oh so many memories -Amy Melious, Somerset Digital Studio bird comes in a close second for similar reasons.

  190. Debi Chacon says:

    Beauty in Simplicity…the bird and the person whose hand it sits upon seem to be having a rather nice conversation…the bird listening intently and responding with looks and gestures while the person delights in them with a soft caressing voice. I love black/white images and this one beckons to all!

  191. Debi Chacon says:

    I love black/white images and Amy Melious has struck a chord with her bird in hand. It shows the beauty in simplicity and definitely beckons to all.

  192. Debbi Baker says:

    I especially love Soraya Nulliah’s bird “with attitude”! Gorgeous colours and interesting background too.

  193. Donna Reid says:

    Amy Melious is my final favorite by the process of comparison elimination with my favorite images.The simplicity of the image spoke to me. The background journaling with the sweetness of the bird trusting to alight on the hand evoked a sense of peace and calm.

  194. Terry G. says:

    I loved Loretta Rathert’s bird. I like the soft, subtle, neutral coloring of the bird and it’s simple, classic shape. Very soothing and peaceful. Frankly, it was that bird on the cover that made me want to buy “400 More Ideas!” But I enjoyed all of the birds–like a bird theme! They all have so much personality!

  195. Sue Clover says:

    I really like Soraya Nulliah’s bird. She appears so perky and happy with herself and the world.

  196. Beth Byrd says:

    My favorite image is that of Amy Melious. The muted tones and softness are especially appealing. The scripted handwriting and bird resting on the fingertips add a delicate touch.

  197. I have to say that these birds are all wonderful. Normally I would be drawn to all the color used – but I love Brigette’s encaustic work. The texture and composition just draw my eyes to the painting.

  198. Margaret says:

    My favorite #8 Joy Northrop…love the colors and phrase. Need to see if I have that magazine.
    Love Love all your publications and have purchased twice thru your special back order opportunity.
    My collection is now over 165 magazines they are timeless and I enjoy every time the chance occurs to explore one of them.

  199. Frances D says:

    I love the bird by Amy Melious, she has captured a fragile moment in time.

  200. Madeline Qualls says:

    I love #5, Amy Melious! The neutral, monochromatic color scheme stood out to me right away. It captures a quiet, delicate moment. I love the use of text incorporated in this image, like an old letter to a loved one.

  201. jan metcalf says:

    Colette Copelands birds inspire me! Lovely!

  202. Bridget says:

    Birds of a Feather, it just looks so carefree.
    Somerset Digital Studio

  203. Karrie Ortiz says:

    Oh these are all great works of art! I have to say #6 by Pam is so lovely with its deep and natural colors, stunning realistic bird, fun journaling!! :)

  204. Larisa says:

    Mindy Lacefield’s bird is my favorite. So cute & pudgy. I want to squeeze it. It makes me smile & feel good inside. Put a bird on it!

    ~Larisa

  205. Ronni Jane says:

    Hello :) I was just writing to find out when and where you release the names of the winners of this contest, as well as the others, specifically the “Spiced September Issues: contest”. I’m anxious to run out & buy the new issue of Somerset Apprentice if I am not a winner. :D Thank you, Ronni

  206. Ronni Jane says:

    Correction: I had written the question above on another blog contest “Spiced September Issues” as well, and just realized i made a mistake. This contest is not for a new Sept. issue, like the other contest, its for the cool Somerset Studio Digital, etc.. So, please ignore my last comment about the Somerset Apprentice, my question for this blog then is where do you guys announce the winners of your contests? Hehe sorry for the confusion. Thank you, Ronni

  207. RonniJane says:

    I just want to say, I spent all day looking at your site today, downloading all the templets, looking at magazines and the blogs, etc., and noticed I have asked on each one that had a contest that I entered, who had won so i can go out and get the magazine if i didnt. (LOL) I am very sorry for my excitement and being a pest!! I had also noticed back a few months ago (the first time i entered & asked) that an employee had responded to my inquiry. I wish I could erase all the posts, but im unable to, so I would just like to offer up an apology. Sincerely, Ronni

  208. Linda Reitz says:

    My fav – Amy Melious, Somerset Digital Studio – a bird in the hand, is a moment to remember forever.

  209. Ann L. says:

    They are all nice in their own way, but the art by Amy Melious strikes a cord for me.

    Who hasn’t dreamed of a bird deliberately flying out of the blue and landing on your hand? It is a magical moment made more beautiful with her skillful use of toen-on-tone color, giving it an even more fantasy feel.

Jordan Art JournalingContests and GiveawaysMixed-Media Art ,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Birds of a Feather Theme
Artist Credit (Top to Bottom, Left to Right): 1- Soraya Nullah, Art Journaling Winter 2013; 2- Loretta Rathert, 400 More Ideas 2013; 3- Mindy Lacefield, Somerset Studio May/June 2010; 4- Julie Valentine, Art Journaling Spring 2013; 5- Amy Melious, Somerset Digital Studio Autumn 2013; 6 – Pam Carriker,  Artists’ Café Vol. 6;  7- Wendy Brightbill, Somerset Studio Gallery Winter 2013; 8- Joy Northrop, Stampers’ Sampler February/March 2012; 9- Colette Copeland, Somerset Studio Gallery Winter 2013; 10-  Bridgette Guerzon Mills, Artists’ Café Vol. 6; 11- Pam Carriker, Somerset Apprentice Spring 2013;12- Thespoena McLaughlin, Somerset Studio Gallery Winter 2013

***

Since last month’s themed blog post on Whimsical Silhouetted Women was such a hit, I wanted to ensure that this month’s trending theme was just as (if not more) enticing to artists and readers alike! And what’s more to love than this simple yet symbolic staple: the classic image of a bird, which represents freedom and flight –  a reflection of our creative release in art.

We’ve compiled a collection of some of our most treasured paintings, projects, cards, and creations spotlighting different portrayals of our flighty and feathered friends. Enjoy an excerpted quote or artsy tip below, and if you want to read more, click on the image or link for full project details:

 

Birds of a Feather Theme

“Journals are what you make them. To me, they are precious records of my life that will get passed down to future generations.” – Soraya Nulliah, Art Journaling

 

 

 

Birds of a Feather ThemeTip: Add pearl and ribbon to any card for instant interest and texture.

– 400 More Ideas 

 

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme

“For me, painting is a nostalgic descent into my childhood where playtime, dolls, and drawing took me into worlds of limitless creativity and mind wanderings.”

– Mindy Lacefield, Somerset Studio 

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme“The big trick to my journaling process is that I journal in 5-10 minute spurts at a time…I don’t do any of my pages in one sitting; instead they evolve bit by bit over time.” – Julie Valentine, Art Journaling

 

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme

“Life is inspiring. Inspiration calls for expression. Expression, in the form of what we create, holds the power to ripple out indefinitely.”

– Amy Melious, Somerset Digital Studio

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme

“I think sometimes the best pages are created when we work intuitively, without over-thinking things.” – Pam Carriker, Artists’ Café

 

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme

Mixed-media tip: “Cut out words from a vintage book, stitch onto a piece of muslin, and adhere to your piece with mod podge.”

– Wendy Brightbill, Somerset Studio Gallery

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme

Stamp dots and adhere torn colored tissue papers to a card for a bright mixed-media effect. – Stampers’ Sampler

 

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme“Birds have been constant in my artwork. I’ve drawn them, painted them, stitched them, collaged with them, taken a long break from them, and lately I’ve been taking huge artistic license and dreaming them up.”

– Colette Copeland, Somerset Studio Gallery

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme

“The first time I picked up a brush and began painting in encaustics, I felt like I had arrived home. There is a definite seductive lure to working in wax, perhaps because it is so sensory – from the warm smell of the melting wax to the organic textures created in the wax.”

– Bridgette Guerzon Mills, Artists’ Café

 

Birds of a Feather ThemeArt journaling tip: “Use mutiple stamped images layered over each other for an interesting look.” – Pam Carriker, Somerset Apprentice

 

 

 

Birds of a Feather Theme“This flying swallow is meant to represent freedom – freedom to be yourself and to dream. – Thespoena McLaughlin, Somerset Studio Gallery

 

 

 

FREE Magazine Giveaway

[This giveaway has ended.]

To Enter: From the grid of images above, pick your favorite bird image and explain why by commenting below!

We will pick 3 lucky winners to receive your choice of our favorite titles: Somerset Digital Studio, the digital version of Somerset Studio, or Somerset Studio Gallery.

 Deadline to enter: Monday, Oct. 21st

*Winners will be contacted via e mail