Lagaz Designs - Art. Jewelry. Life.

Seven Sacred Grandfather Teachings cards - digital version

2011-09-02T20:33:00.003-05:00

I've been getting alot of requests about these cards. I first blogged about them here. They were originally made as ATCs (Artist Trading Cards), so the originals are now in other peoples hands. However, I have been thinking of doing a digital version. To maybe print out and sell. Or people could use them in their presentations and such. But you have to ask permission first of course :)

I'm torn though. I can't decide which version would be better for print? The white, black or gray version?
As I get closer to a final version, I'll let people know when these are available for print!
Let me know your thoughts!

Missing Piece - Silver Version

2011-08-16T15:56:00.000-05:00

"Missing Piece in Silver" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir - 2011)
Sterling Silver & Swarovski Pearls

A Missing Piece

2011-08-15T15:25:00.000-05:00

"Missing Piece" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir - 2011)
Sterling Silver, Gold filled silver and Swarovski Pearls

Steampunk Design Challenge - Artbeads.com

2011-08-13T19:08:00.001-05:00

"Steampunk Victorian Butterfly Pin"
by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir - 2011)

So Artbeads.com offered up a new challenge for us beaders & jewelry makers. It had nothing to do with seasons this time, which was different and refreshing. This time the theme was "What is Old is New again!", with the emphasis on Steampunk design. What is Steampunk? It's where Victorian era meets Modern Day, with a bit of rebelliousness thrown in for good measure. Think Will Smith's "Wild Wild West" movie...that was full of Steampunk. That huge steam powered spider contraption. Gives me the shivers...and not the good ones either. (don't like spiders :P )

With this challenge we also had to use some of our own elements that we had on hand. Like re-using old jewelry parts, watchparts, etc. That part I got. However, this challenge was well....challenging. I like the look of Steampunk, but I have never attemped it before.

I was getting frustrated beyond belief with this. I wanted to take these pieces and throw them at the wall! I'd leave it alone, then come back to it, work for awhile, get frustrated and repeat the process! I give kudos to the people who can do this so easily. (Well, looks easy at any rate) Finally I got through it, and created something that even looked worthy. A "Steampunk Victorian Butterfly Pin" was born. And it was one helluva birthing process! lol!

"Steampunk Victorian Butterfly Pin - Closeup"
By Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir - 2011)

From Artbeads, I used the Kabela Design Antique Butterfly Filligree embellishment from their Embellishments main page (listed under the Brass section). Also, I used the Antiqued Brass Ancient Pin and Brass-Plated Chain listed under their Base Metal main page.

These products were very nice to work with. And they are very strong! I was trying to cut part of the chain with my pliers, and I really had to struggle! I got it finally, although at one point I had to resort to using my Dremel tool to cut through some of the other chain links to attach to the Butterfly. Very well made.

The Ancient Pin was made extremely well also. I wanted to drill a hole through the head of the pin, right in the centre so I could attach the Butterfly with a decorative headpin at one point. Yeah, the drill on my Dremel couldn't even get through it. Caused some frustration, but worked around it. Tough little sucker!

The Butterfly was light, well made, with no broken sections. Exactly what I was looking for when I ordered it.

The other parts of the pin came from some old earrings that I had that I never wore anymore. These were the little mixed metal round circles with square holes in them. They brought some needed shine. I used parts from my old gold watch that I had from years ago, that I never got around to fixing. The motor became the butterfly's body, with a large Amethyst rondelle bead and a Swarovski Bicone in Siam beside it. Czech Fire polished glass beads in Crystal Picasso Rondelles added to the sparkle.

Hope you like it! I'll be looking forward to the next challenge that Artbeads.com gives us :)

Disclaimer: I have received these products free of charge from ArtBeads.com, and I am using these products in my creations to review for this company. I have not been paid to do these reviews or to recieve these products from Artbeads.com.

Fabrics - by Me!

2011-08-11T14:21:00.004-05:00

So I'm trying my hand at making my own fabrics. Painting, printing, stamping, drawing, etc. Just to try it out. I make my own backgrounds for my bags and totes, but actually having a stash of ready made fabrics to choose from, and embellish more if it needs it? That's what I'm trying to do.

I really want to take Alisa Burke's new online class (Beneath the Surface)- but it will have to wait. So for right now, I will draw inspiration from her, and do my own thing. However, I encourage you to try her classes. I love her teaching style.

So far, I've done a few. Just small samples. Nothing big. I have no idea how Alisa Burke does big pieces, they must take her forever. But if you do it for a long time, you get faster eventually, right? Right? Hopefully :)

These are just painted ones on 7 oz cotton canvas. Some of it primed already, but I usually paint on raw canvas. I'll probably make small pouches, or make a mash-up for a pillow cover. Will see how it goes.

Here they are! Enjoy!

ID #8 & #9

2011-07-31T16:00:00.003-05:00

Index Card #8 & #9 are up! Enjoy!

ICAD or ICWICR...

2011-07-27T13:52:00.007-05:00

Index Card a Day or Index Card whenever I can remember, which hasn't been all that much, LOL! I had wanted to do the whole summer challenge over a Daisy Yellow, but I got too busy, of course. But I do one every once in awhile, which I do like.

I'm just doodling, mainly its alot of patterns, shapes and colour. I'm liking them alot. Really graphic and touches of colour which really make some elements POP! Here's what I got so far. Enjoy!

Spirit Raven

2011-06-12T15:51:00.004-05:00

"Spirit Raven" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz Designs) May 2011 - acrylics

Music Themed Funky Messenger Bags

2011-06-12T13:29:00.009-05:00

Here's a couple of funky, graffiti/tattoo inspired messenger bags. These were made for the school where I work, Ecole Selkirk Junior HighWe have a B.O.S.S. (Building on Student Success) Guitar program, where the students can make their very own electric guitars. Yep. Electric guitars. They make them in the woods shop at our school. They even get them painted in all sorts of wild designs!

The students that participate in this program made these guitars, and got different music bands, athletes, singers, etc. to sign them. Even Prime Minister Stephen Harper signed one! With the signed guitars, they had a huge gala event and auctioned them off. The 75% of the proceeds went to the Canadian Human Rights Museum, and the 25% went to funding our Drama/Music programs.

It was such a success! There was over 500 people there, and Harlequin played at our school. It was rockin'! Prior to the Guitar Gala, there was an online auction, where my Rock N' Roll Forever Messenger bag was auctioned off. My second bag, Wild Rose & Crocus Violin Messenger bag, was made especially for Sierra Noble(Mètis violinist/singer). She was supposed to be at the Guitar Gala, but couldn't make it due to recording commitments. But the bag is being sent to her as a thank you for her support.

The Gala was pretty huge success! The school made almost $48,000. Which is pretty amazing!

A little about the bags themselves. Both are made from 7 oz. canvas that was hand-painted, stamped and stenciled upon. Each bag is fully lined, with a zipper pocket and a open-top cell/misc pocket. The Rock N' Roll Forever bag has lime green lining, and the Wild Rose & Crocus Violin bag has a soft, print corduroy lining that looked like Mètis beadwork. Each bag has an adjustable shoulder strap, and they both have hand-painted patches on them for a tattoo-inspired look.
I don't make these bags very often, but they sure do turn out amazing! About 10-12 hours total for each bag, from start to finish. Labour intensive, but worth it!

Moonstone Paisley

2011-04-15T08:11:00.004-05:00

Winter Enchantment with Artbeads.com

2011-03-02T22:46:00.008-06:00

Artbeads.com has given it's Design Partners another exciting seasonal assignment, Winter Enchantment!

Winter has got to be the hardest season of them all. The cold, the snow, the snow, the cold. *sigh* But, Winter does have its wonders. The sparkling of the snow in the morning sunlight, like little crystals (maybe Swarovski ;) ); how a single, fluffy snowflake can wind its way through the sky, while keeping its perfect form. The way my yard looks just as good as the neighbors...ahhh, the magic of Winter, lol!

I decided to try something a little more whimsical in design this time. A puffy cloud with curlicues, and dangling snowflakes. And every cloud has got to have a silver-lining, right? Well, this one certainly does and more! Presenting "Winter's Charm" by Lagaz Designs.

This lovely pin shows off the swirliness of a snow-laden cloud, with it's silver-lining fashioned from 3mm Crystal & Silver Czech Fire-Polished beads. I just love the sparkle of these tiny beads, they mimic the cool icy-ness of Winter.

Dangling from our lovely, puffy cloud are Sterling Silver Snowflake charms. These are soo cute! I like the size of them, they are not too large, they could even be worn as a small pendant by themselves. The only thing I didn't care for is the open jump ring that is attached to the charm. It seemed overly large and did not seem well made. However, that was easily fixed, I just replaced them with a smaller jumpring.

On the other chains, there are 3mm Round Swarovski beads in Pearl White. I paired these bitty beads with cubic zirconia head pins to keep the sparkliness going. They offset the silver with their pearlesence, giving a wonderful elegance. I love Swarovski. I have experienced only good things with them. You cannot go wrong with them, as they are a quality bead.

I hope everyone has had a good Winter, and hope you enjoy Artbeads.com Winter Enchantment! I can't wait to see everyone's submissions!

Disclaimer: I have received these products free of charge from ArtBeads.com, and I am using these products in my creations to review for this company. I have not been paid to do these reviews or to recieve these products from Artbeads.com.

February Bling! Amethyst Circle & a Spring Ring!

2011-02-27T21:50:00.002-06:00

"Amethyst Circle" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir)
Mosaic technique by Eni Oken

"Spring Ring" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir)
Tutorial from Artbeads.com "Spring Lotus"

Lemon Quartz 2 Pendant

2011-01-09T22:55:00.002-06:00

Textured Aluminium, Freshwater Pearl & Lemon Quartz!

2011-01-08T22:45:00.005-06:00

Textured Aluminium bars with Freshwater Seed
Pearls secured with Sterling Silver wire.

Lemon Quartz briollettes nestled between lovely
swirls, and tiny Hill Tribe beads for flash all in Sterling Silver. .

It's Fall Time!

2010-11-04T13:20:00.016-05:00

"Copper Falls Set" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir) November 2010

An elegant jewelry set, with a textural design quality to remind you of the colors of Autumn. Beautiful sterling silver, set off with flashes of warm copper, sprinkling of olive beads, the sparkle of Swarovski crystal, a mixture of Czech fire-polished glass beads, and a hint of Hill Tribe Gold-filled seed beads.

I love the colors of Autumn. The golds, browns, muted greens and coppers. Beautiful! Always an inspiration for an earthy, sultry color palette.

Artbeads.com is hosting another Design Partners Gallery on Facebook. The theme is....you guessed it, "Colors of Fall"!

This particular jewelry set was used as a silent auction gift at a benefit fundraiser social event for my friends daughter, Alicia. She has Goodpasture's Syndrome, which affects the kidneys and lungs. The event was a huge success and the family is so happy with all the wonderful, generous people out there.

I love working with sterling silver, as many people know. But I wanted to warm it up, and bring the lovely fall colors into my creations. With the help of Artbeads.com I was able to do that.

For the pendant, I used a Sterling Silver Kite-shaped link for the frame. The frame was not bulky, and was an excellent size to use as a pendant. The weld to close the link was strong, and smooth, no large unsightly lumps at all. I was going to use the two others I had recieved to make earrings, but had decided that it would be too big, and would be too "busy" looking for the effect I wanted. Definitely will be making a purchase for these again in the future, as these little frames save me some time in making my own frames for pendants.

When I think of Fall, I think of all the colors associated with it, but mostly I think of all the texture that it brings. The crinkling of the leaves, the roughness of the tree bark, the twisty branches reaching towards the sky. I wanted my pieces to have a textural quality to them. So I mixed up a little bit of everything with these pieces.

Inside the pendant frame, the bracelet frame and the earrings, I created a wonderful textural landscape. Using different sized beads, and tiny coils of copper wire, for that little bit of flash & warmth, these pieces just breathe "Fall". Some of the beads I used were the TOHO Round Silver Lined Seed Beads in Olivine, Swarovski 4mm Faceted Roundelles in Crystal Golden Shadow, and Czech Glass Fire-Polished Roundelles in Turquoise with Picasso Mix.

I have never used the TOHO Seed beads before. I am quite impressed with them. I like the silver lining that these particular ones had, and they were all of a uniform size. Sometimes, in other seed beads, you get the weird sized bead, and it throws off your design? These are so consistent, you don't have to worry about that. Which I like!

I love Swarovski. I cannot say enough good things about it. They are perfect for that sprakling brilliance you would want in your design. I just love sparkly. 'Nuff said.

Everytime I use the Czech Glass fire-polished beads, I just fall in love with them more. So many color combinations, and such a high quality bead, there is no way you could go wrong with them. These are fast becoming my favorite glass beads to use.

I love this set, it has such elegant lines. I hope whoever won them in the silent auction will enjoy them!

Disclaimer: I have received these products free of charge from ArtBeads.com, and I am using these products in my creations to review for this company. I have not been paid to do these reviews or to recieve these products from Artbeads.com.

Summertime with ArtBeads.com!!

2010-06-20T17:11:00.016-05:00

Happy Summertime! The beautiful hot days of Summer are here, thank goodness! And I hope it stays for a loooong while. I love summer! The colors of the flowers, the blue skies, the turquoise waters, the soothing white sands, I love all the color that summer brings. This is the time of year that we can all get out and enjoy the bright sunshine, which makes everyone happier!

This summer, ArtBeads.com gave us the theme of 'Summertime' for our design challenge. This I could not pass up! Using the gorgeous Glass Beads from ArtBeads.com, I created this wonderful summer bangle.

The Blue, Brown with Green Dichroic Kalera focal bead is absolutely gorgeous! It has all the colors that I associate with this beautiful season. Blues, for the clear skies; Greens, for the leaves of the trees & grass; Browns, for the darkness of the woods; Beige & White, for the hot beach sands, and a hint of Yellow, for the warm sun.

"Copper Sea Bangle" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir) June 2010

Blue Green dichroic focal bead surrounded by dark wood beads, a light webbing of
copper weaves through the beautiful Czech Glass beads, and tiny seed freshwater
pearls.

The way the wood beads bring out the streaks of brown, really make the blues POP! The focal is made very well, and I really appreciate the quality of this bead. No cracks, no muting of colors, it is a very high grade artisan lampwork bead.

I wanted this bangle to be very light and airy, to serve as a contrast for the substantial lampwork bead. So I wove these tiny glass beads, and seed freshwater pearls into the netting with copper wire. These glass beads were a surprise for me! I didn't expect them to be so beautiful! I used the 3x5mm Crystal Picasso Roundelle strand, which reminded me so much of faceted Amber or Citrine roundelles. Also, I used the 5x4 Green/Brown Roundelle strand, which were the color of Jade. I am so impressed with these beads, I will definitely be getting more of these to use in my designs.

I've got more products from ArtBeads.com to try out still. I think I'm going to make a pendant with a Cherry theme!

Disclaimer: I have received these products free of charge from ArtBeads.com, and I am using these products in my creations to review for this company. I have not been paid to do these reviews or to recieve these products from Artbeads.com.

Paisley Pearl & Labradorite Pendant

2010-03-07T13:07:00.004-06:00

For my sister-in-law; Michelle. Hope you like it :)

Silver and Glass: ArtBeads.com

2010-03-05T18:52:00.020-06:00

So for about two days now, I have been trying to make a post about some of my stuff, and do you think I could do it? Noooo. I got a virus. Twice! And my brother-in-law had a heck of a time getting it off. The second time I did it myself, but I didn't finish until late. Blargh! I hope it doesn't show up again *crosses fingers* Well, without further ado...

A little while ago, I got some product from ArtBeads.com. Man, I love that place!! December was their Silver and Glass month, and this was an opportunity for me to get some more items that I have been wanting to try.

I don't use a lot of glass in my designs (however, that may change after looking at some of these gorgeous Lampwork beads!), but I use sterling silver all the time. I have always wanted to use Ball head pins, and the Bali head pins. I think that they give a lovely decorated look to a lot of designs, without being over done.

Recently I made a wonderful charm necklace; these seem to be all the rage lately. I really like this look. You can add or subtract the charms depending on your mood. So I have made a number of charms on my necklace, using some of the products that I have received. Charm necklaces are a good way to use up some of those lonely beads that you have in your stash, or you want to try some color combinations on a small scale. A gorgeous eclectic look!

"A Charm Necklace" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir) March 2010

Charms(Left to Right): Lemon Quartz Briolette, Bali Round/Swarovski Indicolite bicone, Freshwater Pearl/Clear Quartz Oval barrel bead, Turquoise & Wood Handmade Key, Rough faceted Citrine briolette, Swarovski Olivine Ring/Clear Quartz faceted flat oval, Turquoise/Olive ceramic bead, Hollow Bali Pendant, and Prehnite Roundelle. All components are sterling silver.

In my charms, I've mainly used the Bali Head pins, which gives a finished look to them. In the Prehnite charm, and the Bali Ball/Swarovski charm, I just used the Ball head pins. These headpins are of a very nice quality. The Bali pins have a slight oxidization, which gives their Old World appeal, while the Ball head pins are a nice bright silver. I recommend going to the Sterling Silver Head/Eye pin section and check out the different pins to use in your designs. Beautiful stuff!

Another piece of my necklace, which was the easiest to do, since I didn't have to anything to it at all, was the Hollow Bali Pendant with Intricate design. Now, I know that the website puts the sizes of their products up, but you never really know until you actually see it. Well, this was smaller than I expected. I was hoping it was a little bigger, so that it could be a stand alone pendant. Despite it being small, it's still a gorgeous thing to look at. And it fits within my charm necklace just fine. So it all worked out. It also has that slight oxidization that the Bali beads are known for, perfect for highlighting the complex designs.

Little bit more! *whew* Nothing like having to do it all in one post! LOL!

I love anything Swarovski. The shiner, sparklier the better. Generally. :) For one of the charms, I used one of the Swarovski 12.5mm Ring in Olivine, that I had received from before. Now this isn't your typical over the top Swarovski bead. This is simpler, yet whimsical design. I can't help but think of Lifesavers candy, when I look at these. Aren't they fun? I wanted to echo the circle shape, and the color combination that I had with my ceramic bead. This had fit the bill. Definitely check the other Swarovski Ring beads for a fun design, especially since Spring is in the air!

I have more components to do reviews on, but I have to make something from them first! Keep an eye out in the next little while, I'm going to host a giveaway for Spring!

Disclaimer: I have received these products free of charge from ArtBeads.com, and I am using these products in my creations to review for this company. I have not been paid to do these reviews or to recieve these products from Artbeads.com.

New Amethyst ring!

2010-02-02T21:34:00.005-06:00

Hey y'all! I just wanted to post some pictures of my new Amethyst Weave ring that I had recently made. It's for my friend John's wife, for her birthday. Nice birthday present eh?
However I ran into a problem, it was not big enough. Hmmm, I measured everything to her size, I'm just wondering why it's not dead on. I think I may have pulled the weaving too tight. That's the only thing that I can think of, that would alter the sizing, even though I had measured everything. I was able to save this setting for another stone, and now I am making another setting for her.
That's the only problem with wirework. If it's too big, I can add wire, but if it's too small, I have to remake it. Oh well. Live and learn :)

Here's some pictures to look at. (I really need to get a proper photo setup to take these pictures!)

"Amethyst Weave Ring" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir).
A juicy cushion checkerboard cut Amethyst stone, nestled securely within sterling silver looping prongs. Delicate weaving surrounds the ring shank, and the base of the gemstone. Tiny Hill Tribe beads add some extra sparkle.

Inchie Pendants

2010-01-07T22:48:00.005-06:00

My first post of the New Year! WOW! Happy 2010 everyone :)

I wanted to show off my Inchie Pendants that I have made for a Pendant Swap on illustratedATCs.com. I was trying to figure out how to incorporate my artwork into a pendant without having to go the route of putting it on scrabble tiles or dominoes. I wanted something different, something that was more ME!

That's when I thought of making little frames and stitching inchies to them. Initially, I was going to cover the completed inchie in tape or some sort of lamination, but I decided on using a dimensional gloss over top of it. Doing so, made the artwork look like glass tiles! Awesome!

Each pendant is constructed of handmade sterling silver frames, and the artwork is stitched with fine gauge sterling silver wire. Dimensional glaze is coated on both sides to give a glass-like look, while protecting the miniature artwork. The pendants have some added danglies for some more bling, in the form of Stardust beads, Swarovski Crystals, Cubic Zirconia headpins and some Citrine Rounds.

I'll be sad to see these little guys go, but I will definitely be making some more! Enjoy!

(Belated) Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2009-12-28T23:46:00.010-06:00

I hope everyone had a great Christmas! I had a good one too :) A bit stressful, as it usually is for this time of year, but I made it! I'm not a fan of Christmas, I'm a Hallowe'en person myself, but I do enjoy being with family and having to partake of the food! YUM!

I was supremely busy just before Christmas. I had orders for more of my graffiti/tattoo cosmetic bags, plus a messenger style bag (not pictured), a totebag, and some jewelry! Whew! I managed to get everything done with a day to spare. Good things these were within driving distance, so they got to their respective places in time to sit under the Tree.

I really enjoy making these bags. They are so fun! While they are labour intensive, I think they have a real unique look. Everything handmade, of course. Right from the backgrounds, to the patches that are sewn on.

So here are a bunch of pictures for you to enjoy!

And you all have a very Merry rest of your Holidays!

Some new bags :)

2009-11-19T21:27:00.011-06:00

For the last few weeks I have been working on some cosmetic bags. One of my friends from work, John (and his wife :) ) liked my graffiti bags, so they wanted to know if I could make a cosmetic bag for their niece for Christmas. Sure! Why not?

So I tried something different for these ones. A little more graphic, tattoo inspired :) I've made four cases (although I didn't take a picture of the smallest one). So I'll show you pictures of the bigger ones. These would be sizes Medium, Large and Extra-Large (<---which would almost be a purse onto itself. They look so fun! The large and extra-large took me the longest, as I've been sick the last little while. But they all turned out great! I used a pattern made by QueenofDIY from Craftster.org. Check it out here: Straight Sided Triangular Cosmetic Bag.

So John gets to have first pick for his niece, and the others ... well we'll see. ;) Enjoy!

Totem Cards - Fox, Cat, Dragonfly, the Sun, Raven, Sea Turtle and Spider

2009-10-19T17:52:00.008-05:00

It has been brought to my attention that I am missing some images from my site. I am sure I had posted about these cards before, but I guess when I updated I may have lost them.
Here they are again - some more totem goodness :) Plus a new one - Spider.

Swarovski Beads!!

2009-10-04T19:35:00.022-05:00

Recently, I was asked if I would be willing to blog about some products for ArtBeads.com. Heck Yeah! Why not?! I love making jewelry, and am always willing to try new products. So a representative from Artbeads.com (Hi! Duchess!), told me to pick some Swarovski products to try, as September is Swarovski month.

Okay, I know it's October, but I've been sick :P

This past week, I received my little packet of Swarovski products, and let me tell you I was blown away!! So much bright, sparklie goodness!! I love it! So my mission for the next little while is to make some wonderful jewelry to showcase these beauties! And I've already started!

Here's my first creation. I used Eni Oken's Square Cab ring Tutorial. I've had this tutorial for awhile, and I've been waiting to find something to try it with. And boy, did I ever!

Here it is! Isn't it beautiful? So simple and elegant, this simple weave certainly sets off this 12mm Chessboard Flatback in Crystal Silver Shade.

I took so many pictures, it was hard to choose. So here; you can view from all angles.

"Crystal Silver Shadow ring" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir) 2009.

A simple, but elegant ring, surrounded with shining, bright sterling silver. This Swarovski chessboard flatback rhinestone will surely catch any persons eye.

I apologize for the color variation between pictures. The very first, looks almost like a solid silver, but it's not. In the other pictures, it looks almost golden with some pink highlights, but it's not. The true color is a very light, translucent silver. However, I found that it reflects the surrounding colors very well. Hence, the extreme color variations. So potentially, you could have a different colored ring with every outfit! LOL!

I really like this Chessboard Rhinestone shape. And Artbeads.com carries many other shapes also. Check out their Swarovski Rhinestone Section. I am definitely going to be trying out the other colors and shapes, because these are perfect for rings.

Expect some more reviews and bling from me soon!!

ETA: I have received these products free of charge from ArtBeads.com, and I am using these products in my creations to review for this company. I have not been paid to do these reviews or to recieve these products from Artbeads.com.

Totes and Purses!

2009-10-04T19:00:00.014-05:00

Ever since I made my first tote from the canvases that I did in Alisa Burke's Graffiti Chic class, I was hooked. I've made some more since, and is it ever easy!!

Here's another tote bag that I made for my friend, Sarah aka Original Youth, for a Christmas in July swap on iATCs. Her favourite things: turquoise, red, black, Eiffel Tower, poppies and sparklie goodness. What a gorgeous combo!

After that, I got brave, and made a purse of my own! With my own pattern yet!! It's even lined :) No zipper though, although in the picture I have a loop and button, but I have since put a snap button on the flap. I really like it. Very colourful, not too big, as I don't carry alot of stuff in purses and so totally me!

I even tried a wallet :) This one still has a few kinks to work out, but pretty good for my first try.

My daughter wanted a purse of her own. So I tried a hobo style. I got this pattern off of Crafster.org. (I'll post here who made the pattern once I look it up). I just cut it out, and Marlena painted it herself. Nice design, very Rock N' Roll :)

Then we gave my niece, Kahrisa a hobo purse for her birthday. She LOVED it!

Last, but certainly not least, I made these cute little graffiti inspired flower pins. So bright and fun!

I just love this look! So fresh, funky and fun! And the best part I like about it? Playing with the paint :)

Graffiti Love

2009-09-27T11:27:00.007-05:00

Not many people know this, but I have a deep love for graffiti. The bold colours, the stylization, the statement that they make. I love the fact that writers (graff-artists) can express themselves so freely, yet tread on the edge of the forbidden.

I know, I know...most graffiti is frowned upon. Especially if its a business building of your own that gets tagged, and it is considered vandalising. But have you ever really looked at it? I know some people think "Well I can spray my name all over with a can of spray paint. What's so hard about that?" Have you ever looked at some of those tags? Most writers spend enormous amounts of time getting their own "tag" style right, and recognizable. So it is definitely not slap-dash most of the time. And some of the murals? Positively to die for! I mean, what these guys can do with a can of spray paint!! I wish I could do that. I just love it. *sigh*

I love graffiti! I think it's the bold use of colours that really attracted me at first. Look at some of these: Skull by the Mac , Reyes (pics taken by funkandjazz), High Caliber mural (several artists) (pic taken by Chele in LA) and Laneway (pic taken by princess_lotta). Wow!! I would love a canvas of some of those!

It makes me think about how it will be in the future; when our descendants see these graphic murals and wonder what our society was like at that time. Like the cave paintings, eh? LOL! Definitely not cave paintings are these :)

I know I'm just rambling on :) That's how my mind works...just tumbling over and over.

There is a whole point to this post actually, other than the graffiti love. More graffiti actually. Mine to be exact :) Last May, I took Alisa Burke's Graffiti Chic class, and it was AWESOME! I loved it. Alot of it was common sense, but she put a whole new spin on it. I kept thinking "Why didn't I think if that?" the whole time I was doing this class. We did paint splatters, stencilling, spraypainting, lots of layers, lettering (another love of mine). Basically, just getting down right messy. I admit, that was the hardest part for me to do. To let go, and just "go with the flow". But I can tell you, since doing this class I have a whole new appreciation for "messy art". It's way more fun!!!

I did two canvases for Alisa's class. I had some el cheapo framed canvas that I just cut out of their frames. It was primed already (but had a slight gloss to it that I did like...hmmm....I'm assuming its gesso, but had something else with it? I wonder...) , so I didn't have to do anything to it. We didn't have to prime our canvas/fabric/paper if we didn't want to. And away we went!!

So here are my two canvases that I did:

"Flight of Fancy" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz)

"Amour Ambigram" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz)

With these two canvases I sewed a tote bag for myself. Which I love! It's big and roomy, and best of all I made it myself! I've gotten lots of compliments also. To see some of the other students work please check it out on Alisa's blog here, amazing art all around!

Alisa is offering the Part 2 of the Graffit Chic class in January 2010. I will definitely be taking that!

Northwest Coast Seven Teachings Mural finished!!

2009-08-16T23:51:00.010-05:00

I promised that I would post a pic of the completed mural. Looks a bit wonky as I had to stitch the pictures together to get the whole thing. And the one on the right looks weird because it's on an angle, compared to the rest of the wall.

I really like it. Very simple, to echo the clean lines of the design. My Grade 9 Art students helped me, and they all did a massively awesome job. It was kind of a long drawn out project, but we all perservered and finished it! Now since it's done, I have new totem cards! I posted the ones from an earlier post, now I have the remaining ones. These will be traded soon :)

Buffalo (Respect), Eagle (Love), Wolf (Humility), Bear (Courage), Beaver (Wisdom), Turtle (Truth), and Sabe (Honesty)
Northwest Coast Seven Teaching Mural
- designed by Melissa Muir, painted by the 2009 Grade 9 Alt. Art class of ESJH.

*Wolf Totem designed with lessons from Learning by Doing Northwest Coast Native Indian Art

Whimsy Art

2009-08-11T14:18:00.011-05:00

In the Spring time, I talked about taking the Whimsy Art workshop that iATCs.com was hosting. Well I actually did it! Learning via online videos is an interesting experience, but I found it very relaxing. No time constraints, and you can learn at your own pace.

As I said before, Whimsy art is a kind of difficult for me. But the ladies who hosted the workshop, made it easier. I really enjoyed it, got lots of feedback too. It was for 4 weeks, each week focused on something different.

Week 1 was about Color, Stylization and developing a whimsical style. I've included some images from my Whimsy journal:

Week 2 focused on Beginner Techniques. Working with different media.

Week 3, we worked on developing our People Skills :)

I haven't finished Lesson 4 yet. Summer's been distracting me. But that's why I like these online classes. You can go back to them later and finish up.

If you're looking for something different to do, and would like to try your hand at some art check out the Whimsy workshop and their other workshops that are coming up really soon!

Gifts

2009-08-10T23:49:00.007-05:00

These were gifts for our Principal and Vice-Principal of the school where I work. They accepted positions elsewhere in the school division, and we're sure going to miss them. Good luck and we'll miss you!!

"Diane Paisley Pendant" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir)

Sterling silver wire gently shaped into paisley form, and filled with tiny Ruby and Labradorite rondelles, seed pearls and stardust beads for extra shimmer.

(Unfortunately I don't have the actual picture of the shadowbox, I don't know where it went. Oh well. Just imagine it being there :P )

"Batman Shadowbox for Darcy" - artwork by Melissa Muir, collage by Jacqueline D. Bercier.

Flower for Tellulah :)

2009-08-10T23:42:00.003-05:00

A Private trade for Tellulah :)

"Orange Gerbera Daisy" ATC by Melissa Muir (Lagaz)

Number and Colour Books for kids

2009-07-06T20:22:00.005-05:00

My friend Tlouey (Sara) from iATCs.com, wanted us to participate in helping her to make some colour and number books for her kids. They measure 4" x 4", and so I signed up for a page each in her books.
The first one is her colour book and I chose Red:

One of my favourite cars. A 1967 Chevelle. It's a beauty :) *car love*

The second is for her number book and I chose Tw0:

Ahhh, John Deere tractors. I love them. I remember playing with my little John Deere tractor when I was younger. Who says Barbies and Tractors don't mix? :P

Sara is also an author of a children's book called "Horse on the Loose!" Please check out her site: Red Horse Studios. She is a fantastic artist and writer :)

Spring PAT 2009 on iATCs.com

2009-07-06T20:14:00.002-05:00

*sharpies, prismacolour pencils, ink and dimensional glaze (sapphire and house only)

Geez Long time no blog :)

2009-07-06T19:55:00.003-05:00

Hi!! *waves* Remember me? The sporadic blogger is back, and guess what? It's summer vacation for me!! YAY!
I do realize that I only seem to blog when I am on holidays. This is when I can really keep my attention on it, and so hopefully I can update you all on my wonderful (boring) life! YAY!

So what have I been up to? Hmmm, well I've taken two online art workshops. Which were awesome! I've completed my Northwest Coast Mural (finally!). I've made somemore ATCs, and have made a couple of totebags for my self. I've also done a bit of jewelry, so there's some bling coming your way soon.

Not alot of stuff, but enough to keep me busy and out of trouble relatively :)

What am I going to do this summer? I'm going to do some more art of course! Make some jewelry, maybe get that Etsy store that I keep talking about open. Do some more serious sewing I think. Some of my friends want me to give an art workshop this summer, so I'm thinking what I could do for that. Maybe clean up my art spot in the living room :)... Nah. LOL! Also I think I will hold a giveaway soon. I haven't had one in a long time, since BloggyGiveaways has stopped. But I think I can handle one on my own what do you think?

Just a quickie update for now! Check back soon for more posts!

No Bling Lately...I know :(

2009-04-26T16:23:00.003-05:00

Yeah nothing sparkly crossing my blog lately. *sigh* I haven't had much inspiration, and I haven't much supplies either. Being broke and all that. *BIG sigh*
I'm hoping to order some more silver shortly. But I am really looking into getting some silver solder. I'm checking things out...hopefully I can do something :) If not, more wire here I come! LOL!

Also, my camera is toast, so even if I did have some new sparklies, you wouldn't be able to see them. Another thing to buy on my ever growing list. :P

Well whatever. I think I'm going to play with some art supplies, and see what I can come up with!

ArtTrader Mag Vol 6!! New division of illustratedATCs.com OPEN!

2009-04-26T13:46:00.005-05:00

A new volume of ArtTrader Mag is out! Whoo HOO! I love looking at this online magazine. It always has yummy art and articles. This one is no exception.
It talks about design composition, how to get your artwork web-ready, watercolor pencils, an interview with a Fiber Artist, and so much more!

They have announced their new redesigned website for ArtTraderMag.com! It looks wonderful, and includes the ArtTrader Store. Right now it is showcasing some collage images for our mixed mail artist friends out there! Check it out!

IllustratedATCs.com is expanding! The sister site: MailArtWorld.com is closed down, as it hasn't done as well as the creators had hoped. But they still needed a place for the higher-level mixed mail artists to congregate. IllustratedATCs.com stepped up, and the two sites are merging as one. iATCs.com will have two divisions: Pencil & Paint, and Mixed Mail Art. It is still a juried site for both sides, but I still encourage you to apply. You never know what will happen if you don't try!

Spring Break has come and gone....dang.

2009-04-26T13:17:00.005-05:00

And it wasn't really a "Spring" break either. Too much snow. And more snow. Bleh. Of course, it gets nice out when I go back to work. Figures. But what can I say? That's way Mother Nature goes, and if you cross her...look out!! LOL!

The weather is finally decent. AMEN! I can see the sun, the birds are out, and the grass is slowly getting greener. Although, I have three big dirt piles in my front yard. I did not put them there. The City did. They put in a new sewer line, which is great, it's just that my front lawn looks horrible. And they almost took out one of my flower beds! I hope it's okay...my husband is going to start digging around to see if any of the root systems are damaged. Apparently, the City is going to replace the grass and whatnot, but I'll believe it when I see it. Unfortunately I don't have too much faith when the City promises something.

So no flowers for us yet. It still is quite cool here, but hopefully soon. I want to see some COLOR!! How I miss it in the Winter time. That's why I love Spring and Summer. All the colors. It's glorious!

Since I haven't any grown flowers, I drew some flowers for the Flowers swap at iATCs.com. I couldn't resist of course. What woman doesn't like flowers? So here are some to brighten your day! They certainly brighten mine :)

*all done in watercolor, colored pencils, india ink, acrylic and sparklie pen :)

More Harajuku Girls!

2009-03-29T12:41:00.005-05:00

I just love these girls! They are all so colourful, and vivacious. So I finished my set for iATCs.com, and I also joined the AFA.com version. Those are finished too! I put them all in a set, so you can peruse to your hearts content :)

Other news: I'm on Spring Break right now, so I am hoping/planning to get a bunch of stuff done this week. Also, the Whimsy Workshop on ArtTraderMag.com is starting on Wednesday, and I can hardly wait! This should be very interesting. I've never taken an online course before. Iam so excited!! You can still sign up! Come and art with me on Wednesday!

I got an Award!

2009-03-26T23:17:00.005-05:00

I got this award from my artist friend Jade of Jade Scarlett Art . Thank you so much Jade! You should check out her art blog, she is always trying new things! And her animal portraits are fantastic!

Now, since I recieved this award, I need to name 7 things that I love, and pass this award to 7 other bloggers. So here's my list of things that I love:

My daughter and Husband :) Love you!
My Twin sister (Evil twin) and her husband >:)
My Mom, Dad(s) and my sisters and their families :)
All of my friends! :D Huggles to all!
My cats >.<
My ART!!
My blue mechanical pencil (my day just isn't right without it)

Now my list of 7 bloggers that should recieve this award, and you guys should visit!

Springtime Inspired (Jenn Klee)
Artist Shout Outs (Sarah Dudenhoffer)
Moonscapes - A Visual Journal (Cindy Couling)
Keelaz Kreationz (Keela)
Rapa Art (Rhonda Anderson)
ArtPfunk Central (Andrea Melione)
Boatbird - Life at wing afloat (Kathryn Cresswell)

Hope you guys don't mind :) You all deserve it! *MWAH* Now pass it on!!

Harajuku Girls Swap

2009-03-02T22:46:00.007-06:00

This swap is hosted by my friend ANg, over at iATCs.com. I tried so hard to resist this swap, as I had so much on plate already. But I couldn't. I mean...look at these pics here! Aren't these the most fabulous pictures ever?! To have that courage; that freedom of self-expression to wear and be those things! LOVE IT!!

"Kawaii!" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz)

"Freedom!" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz)

"Rawr!" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz)

*all done in Sharpie marker, Prismacolor pencils, and Sakura Glaze pens.

Wizard of ODD Swap

2009-03-02T22:38:00.006-06:00

This was a hilarious swap over at ATCsforALL.com. Nuttynanner was the hostess for this one, and she kept everyone in stitches! A lot of creative cards going on, although there seemed to be an ongoing theme of Dorothy being some kind of streetwalker. I guess she's too pure, and everyone had to do her the complete opposite. lol!

Here are my offerings, hope you enjoy them. I did! LOL!

"The Wiz Man" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz)

"The Y.B. R. Walkers" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz)

"The 'Kins in da 'Hood" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz)

*all done in Sharpie markers, Prismacolors pencils and Sakura glaze pens.

Feathered Mask

2009-02-22T22:34:00.000-06:00

"Feathered Mask" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz).

Personal trade with Artwoman3571 on iATCs.com.

Prismacolors pencils, ink and Sakura Glaze & Metallic Pens.

Whimsy Art Workshop

2009-02-08T19:57:00.004-06:00

Triumvirate sites: ATCSforALL.com, MailArtWorld.com and IllustratedATCs.com have developed an online workshop to develop your Whimisical style!
So if you're interested in happy themes, bright colours and fantasical places, then this would be great for you!
I'm even thinking of taking it. I love whimisical art, but I have such a block when it comes to creating it. I think that this might make things easier!
Click the above link or the button below to get more details. Pass this around to all your friends, it would be a great excuse to get together and learn something!

Bright Colours

2009-02-03T10:09:00.000-06:00

"Bright Colours" by Melissa Muir.
Watercolors, ink, prismacolor pencils and pearl-ex powders.

For Nelleke. Thank you so much for the beautiful ATC you traded to me. I love it very much!

Ravens

2009-02-02T10:01:00.001-06:00

I've been trying to practice with my acrylics more, so I made these guys. Unfortunately, the pictures are not that great. I really got to make myself a good photo light box, so I can take really good pictures of my creations.
Anyways, I found that I really have to loosen up when I paint with acrylic, and move faster. Using pencil crayon, I am very slow, so this was a hard to get into. I think these little ravens turned out pretty decent. I'll have to try it again soon.

"Primus" by Melissa Muir

"Secundus" by Melissa Muir

"Gurba" Earrings

2009-02-01T20:06:00.000-06:00

"Gurba Earrings" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir).

Sterling Silver cross posts hammered and then bound with beautiful gold-filled wire. A simple, yet elegant pair of earrings, suitable for anything.

Tuscany

2009-02-01T08:00:00.001-06:00

"Tuscan Sunflowers" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz)

"Idyliic Tuscan Postcard" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz)

*Acrylics

Character Pick A Theme on illustratedATCs.com

2009-01-31T21:42:00.003-06:00

These cards are for the first ever Character Pick a Theme on iATCs.com. Each person contributed a character that they have made up, either through RPGs, MOOs, D&D, etc. Everyone's was varied, and extremely detailed.

"Crude Jack" by Melissa Muir
for Meran

"Nicodemus: WWI era" by Melissa Muir

for Chronata

"Hans" by Melissa Muir

for Tlouey

"Gelfling" by Melissa Muir

for KreationKween72

*all done in prismacolor pencils, exception of "Hans" - graphite.

Fine Art Valentines VI

2009-01-31T21:24:00.006-06:00

Nicci over a Livejournal did a call to artists to participate in her annual Fine Art Valentines. This the 6th year that it has been running, and apparently, she has gotten some amazing prints! Sometimes, if she is able to, she puts them into a gallery showing.

There are 20 participants, and we each have to make 20 prints of a valentine or heart shaped theme. I love print-making so I had to participate. Quite alot of my friends from iATCs.com joined in also.

Since I love carving my own stamps, but wanted it to be as clean as possible, I had to purchase some new knives. I got #1 and #6 lino knives (in conjunction of my #2 & #4), and what a difference did it make! My block came out great! I was so impressed. Also I purchased a brayer and some real printing ink. Let me tell you, having the right tools to do a project - it makes it so much easier! And I always like playing with new materials.

With my print, I had to do the gold heart shape first; which I stencilled on. I used registration marks, so I knew where I was going to put my stamp. Then I took my stamp, lined up the registration marks, and stamped away! They came out so pretty! I can't wait to see what the others look like.

"Heart of Gold" by Melissa Muir. Edition of 24.

* you can see the shine better on this one.

Encouraging young people to explore ATCs and ART!

2009-01-31T21:05:00.006-06:00

One of the ladies; Shelli (PotBellyArts), at iATCs.com was making gifts for her two sons for Christmas. She had asked all of us if we wished to contribute an ATC each for her sons. Shelli was making ATC albums for each of them, and she wished to get something from all of us to put something in it. Shelli wanted to encourage them to explore the world of ATCs and encourage them about sharing their art. Which I thought was a splendid idea! I'm always for encouraging Kids and Art :)

So I made these two ATCs; the first one depicting a biomechanical warrior, and the second one with a Guitar Hero/Comic book/Graffiti feel.

"Past & Future Warrior" by Melissa Muir

"Guitar Hero" by Melissa Muir

Apparently, the boys were in awe of all the art they received, especially after realizing that each card was made specifically for them.

I think that would be an awesome present to recieve!

Fall Pick A Theme 2008

2009-01-31T20:54:00.003-06:00

For the Fall Pick a Theme on illustratedATCs.com.

"Masquerade" by Melissa Muir
For PotBellyArts.

"The Nonsuch" by Melissa Muir
For Inkleaves

"A Roadside Attraction: Chuck the Catfish" by Melissa Muir
For Pamalama

"The Gathering Tree" by Melissa Muir
For Dina54

*all done in prismacolor pencils and sakura glaze pens

Winner for "Gurba" Earrings!

2009-01-31T06:00:00.004-06:00

Winner: Bison61 !! Comment # 126

Courtesy of Random.org
--------------------------------
Here are your random numbers:

126
Timestamp: 2009-01-31 06:05:11 UTC
------------------------------------

Congratulations Bison61! Once I have confirmation, and other details; I will mail out your prize as soon as possible. I will send you an e-mail when I do, so you can know when to expect it.

This was so much fun! I enjoyed coming on here everyday to look at the number of comments and reading them. You guys are all awesome!

I'll be posting this in the Mr. Linky on the Bloggy Giveaways site also, so that you can check out the winners from there too.

Thank you so much for your support & participating!

♥♥.·:¨¨:·.♥.♥.·:GIVEAWAY:·.♥♥.·:¨¨:·.♥♥

2009-01-26T00:12:00.005-06:00

Giveaway is now closed!! Thank you for particpating!

Can you believe it? Bloggy Giveaways is here again. It's amazing how time flies, but that's okay, because it means I can give away something to you! Are you excited? Do you wanna know what I'm giving away? Yeah? Okay, here it is...

"Gurba Earrings" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir).

Sterling Silver cross posts hammered and then bound with beautiful gold-filled wire. A simple, yet elegant pair of earrings, suitable for anything.

These earrings were inspired by a student of mine. We were making God's Eyes for a craft afternoon, and my student, M, was fooling around hanging the decorations off his ears. He told me, "Mrs. Muir, wouldn't these make great earrings?" And you know what? They do make great earrings. I told my student that I would name them after him, since he inspired me.

Since he inspired me, I'm giving them away to you, my lucky readers! I think everyone deserves a little bit of inspiration!

Elegiblity - Starts - Ends - Notification:

Elegible: Everyone! I will ship internationally. And you do not have to be a Blogger to participate.
Starts: Monday, January 26, 2009
Ends: Friday, January 30, 2009 @ Midnight CST
Draw will be done, and winner notified by Saturday, January 31, 2009 using Random.org.
Winner will have till Tuesday, February 3, 2009 @ 10pm CST to acknowledge prize.

► RULES ◄

One entry per person (make sure to have valid e-mail address and name in your comment). Leave it like this if you don't want to be spammed (eg. lagazdesigns AT mts DOT net ).

Take a look around my blog, and leave a comment here at this post on which piece of artwork or jewelry you like the most.

It's that easy! Please check out the other Bloggy Giveaways that are happening this week, by clicking the link or the button on the side of the page.

GOOD LUCK!

BONUS!!

Ellen over at Thrify & Chic Mom is having a giveaway also this week. She is giving away one of my Silver Weave Pearl rings! I urge you to RUN, don't walk!, over there to enter into her giveaway. Hey, you never know, you might get lucky ;)

Mini Nautilus Pendant

2009-01-25T23:58:00.003-06:00

This necklace has been blogged about at Thrifty & Chic Mom. Please check it out and enter the giveaway!

"Mini Nautilus Necklace" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir).

Made of shiny sterling silver wire and shaped into a delicate nautilus shell. Fine gauge wire and tiny hill tribe beads highlight the airy feeling of this pendant. The palest pink freshwater pearl is the center focus, while the sheer ribbon completes the look.

Close up

Bloggy Giveaways start this week!!!

2009-01-25T11:45:00.002-06:00

And I can't wait! I love Bloggy Giveaways! People everywhere giving away anything, it's amazing how many people participate.
I'm giving away something also, but you're going to have to wait till tomorrow. Bright and Early!

Seafoam and Natural Mosaic Pendants

2009-01-13T20:38:00.000-06:00

"Seafoam Mosaic" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir).

A beautiful mosaic pendant with the colors that would remind you of a tropical sea. Lovely African Jasper, Jade, resin and glass beads, mixed with shiny silver Hill Tribe, and sparkling Stardust beads. All within a sterling silver frame.

"Natural Mosaic" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir).

Natural colors compliment this pendant. Loveley African Jasper, Garnet rondelles, metal, wood and glass beads make an organic statement with tiny Hill Tribe beads. A sterling silver frame carries this wonderful piece.

*Mosaic technique courtesy of Eni Oken.

Art Trader Vol 5 is out and Petite Artiste article...

2009-01-13T17:50:00.007-06:00

It's the New Year, and that means it's time for the new Art Trader magazine to be released! YAY!

It's chock full of good things, like Altered Art 101, a walkthrough, Critique corner and the Petite Artiste articles. They happen to be my favorite, as I love reading about how children concieve their own art, and how they are supported in their creations. I think it is very important, no matter what age you happen to be.

This month's Art Trader Petite Artiste article features my daughter, Marlena! YAY!
She was so thrilled to be included this time around, she loves showing off her artwork. I admit that some of her art is different for some, but I think it really reflects the way teenagers are socially in this current day. It's a little bit darker, edgier, but there is still the use of bright colors to signify that they are still light-hearted. It's interesting to see that how that is reflected in one's artwork.
I see alot of that now in this age group's creativity. It must be a cultural thing, or an effect from media. Or kids just feel more intensely now, than I did when I was that age. It certainly gives a different feel.

I'm very proud of her, and she's been producing so much artwork lately. And it has made quite a transition from Anime to almost a semi-realistic look. And she experiments with different media now. Marlena recently made a Wolf painting for me and my husband for Christmas. And it's wonderful! I love the painterly look, and the background is awesome!

I couldn't be prouder of my Darth Marl (Marlena). Love you sweetie :)

Mother of Pearl Cufflinks and Purple Star Mosaic Necklace

2008-12-30T18:12:00.000-06:00

"Mother of Pearl and Sterling Silver Cufflinks"
by
Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir)
Mother of Pearl surrounded by small silver Hill Tribe beads, anchored securely on handmade sterling silver cufflinks.

"Purple Star Mosaic Necklace"
by
Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir)
A mixed array of peacock coloured Freshwater pearls, carved Amethyst, Garnet rondelles, and dazzling Swarovski crystals; are brought to life within this sterling silver Star frame.
Mosaic technique courtesy of Eni Oken.

Secret Santa...

2008-12-29T12:03:00.012-06:00

I promised that I would share what I gave to my Secret Santa partners. One has received, the other hasn't yet, but I'll still post them :) Update: She got it!!

This first bunch is what I gave my SS partner, Jan AKA Lattetzar on illustratedATCs.com.
Along with some other gifties; I made an altered Art Journal, an Anthropomorphic ATC, a handcarved stamp of his sock monkey Scooter, an ornament based on Miss Scarlett of CLUE, last but not least; hand made Mother of Pearl and sterling silver cufflinks.

Jan enjoyed them all! I'm so glad that he did. I really like how the Scooter stamp turned out, it's so cute :) The cufflinks came out very well also, so that will be a new piece of jewelry I can offer for the males out there.

Now my second Secret Santa partner hasn't gotten hers yet, but I'm going to post it anyways. This is for Dina aka Dina54 on illustratedATCs.com. I'm hoping her package gets there today, as she has had to wait the longest. Which is weird, as Florida (Lattetzar) is farther away than Rhode Island...at least I think so. Update: DIna got it today!

I made Dina an altered Art Journal, an 8"x8" page inspired by the Dawn Treader lyrics by Joni Mitchell, a Gothic Alice in Wonderland ornament, and a Star Mosaic Necklace, plus some other goodies :) On to the pictures!!

I hope she likes these. Her "Seabird" suffered a mishap just before I shipped it. The glued on backing had let go, so I had to re-glue, and stitch it together! It looks quite nice now; with a aqua blue ribbon down the side, but looks different from the picture I have here. Maybe I'll get an updated one later :)

Happy Holidays to my Secret Santa gift partners! Enjoy your gifties!

Most of the hubbub is over...

2008-12-29T11:24:00.007-06:00

I hope everyone had a very good Christmas. I had a good one also. Spent time with my family, had good food, and laughter. That's the best part of holidays for me. Not the presents, but getting together with family. We always have fun together, teasing each other, telling stories. Ahh, everyone cracks me up :)

We even surprised my Amma this year with a new fridge. Bringing the new one in was easy, taking the old fridge was hard. Man was that sucker heavy! Wow! At least the new ones have wheels on them, thank goodness. My Amma walked into her kitchen, she didn't even notice the fridge at first. Not even with a huge bow on it! Hahaha! Then we all came out and shouted "SURPRISE!" Almost gave her a heart attack...just kidding. But she did appreciate it. I'm glad she liked it, and we (the kids and grandkids) kept it a secret since summer! Wow! Usually secrets don't last that long in our family, someone usually blabs. But we all held firm, and Amma didn't even know about it!

I got my second present from my Secret Santa on illustratedATCs.com already. It was from Abi! I gave her a gift last year, and this year she got me :) I was hoping it was her, as I love her art!
Abi's been away in Africa over the holiday to get married! Finally events have pulled together that she can get together with her long time love, Gee. I'm very happy for them, they have waited a long time.

Abi got me a cuddly warm scarf, frames for ATCs, chocolates, silvery Christmas rub-on transfers, a cute sparklie snowflake, handmade clay Christmas tree earrings (so cute!), a framed ATC of a monarch butterfly wing (I love it!) and my very own Abi original vase! *happy sigh* Thank you Abi!

Merry Christmas Everyone!!

2008-12-25T23:33:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone had a great day with family, friends, and good things to eat!
Have a Great Holiday!

Strathmore Great Holiday Swap

2008-12-18T17:17:00.009-06:00

About a month ago, I sent in an ATC for this swap that ended on December 15th. I wasn't sure about what to expect from this, but was hoping that it would be good. The cards had to to be Holiday or Winter themed, and meet the qualifications of ATCs. The card I sent in was my first "Winter Goddess".

Very closely related to my second card that I used in my Giveaway. Anyways, she turned out spectacularly! I just loved the expression on her face, and she was so hard to send away, but I'm glad that I kept a scan of her as a memory. *sigh*

Yesterday, I received an e-mail from the person who got my card! Rob Leveroos is his name, and he e-mailed me to let me know that he loved my card. That is so sweet! I'm so glad that he enjoys it, and he told me that she would be in good hands :) YAY! That makes me feel better, knowing someone out there appreciates a well-made card and miniature art.

I received my return, from a lovely artist name Sandee Lee B. (I apologize if I have read your name incorrectly) It's a winter landscape of a old farm road, called "The Ultimate Suburbs".

So lovely, glittery and nostalgic. Makes me think of winter days on our old farm in Minnedosa. I love it! I wish I could send you an e-mail telling you I appreciate it very much, but since I am unable to, I'll just post about it instead. If you come across this post and want me to take your picture down, please let me know and I will. I just want to share it with everyone :) Thank you so much for creating a truly beautiful card!

Christmas is coming...

2008-12-12T20:07:00.012-06:00

I hope everyone likes my new blog template. It looks nice, and seems to do the job. I had to do a bit of crash course CSS/HTMLing but so far I like it.

Today I just mailed out a couple of packages for my Christmas Swap partners on illustratedATC.com. I was supposed to have done it on the 10th, but I had my Afterschool Art club run overtime, and then a little disaster struck. One of my present's glue had let go! I fixed it, but I had to try something a bit different for me, so I hope my gift partner still likes it.

Wanna see some pictures? They're just teaser pics and I'll post the actual ones when my gift partners receive them.

Also I got a Christmas swap package recently! It's from Judithann Illingworth (Gingersnap). Beautiful stuff! Here is a picture to see my pressies!

I really like the Mini painting and the Mini Journal. They are beautiful and I love the colors. There is so much detail in the painting, and the journal has a delicate line drawing, that is so modern feeling. The journal is handmade, so I want to study it so I can figure it out and make my own!

Christmas is approaching fast, and seems like time is slipping away. I'm trying to make my presents this year, but it's hard. I have two quilts that I need to finish. Some jewelry pieces and some artwork to do over the holidays. I need some sleep and time to slow down for a little while. Prefereably on the weekend, when I'm not at work; work time can fly by as fast as it wants ;)

Time to change!

2008-11-24T13:32:00.002-06:00

Guess you've noticed some things are changing here :) My blog will be in a state of construction for a little while, till I get things fixed.
Blogger's having some errors where it wouldn't let you upload new templates or something, but I just deleted my widgets and uploaded a new template. Only thing is I have to put them all back, but that's okay I have to update some of them anyways.

So see you in a few days with a shiny new template :)

Hmmm, something's wrong

2008-11-23T12:26:00.002-06:00

Well looks like everything that I had just disappeared. Pictures, links, etc. I have been trying to reconfigure things, but I did just cancel what I was doing and put the normal stuff back up. I guess it didn't take, and I have been trying to fix it for a few days, but I keep getting some error. Oh well. I'm hoping to have it up soon, because I want to add some new stuff :)

So this is just temporary, and hopefully be back up in a few days! Thank you for being patient!

I won a prize!

2008-11-01T14:51:00.002-05:00

I won a prize from the Bloggy Giveaways also! YAY!
My prize was from Hot Beauty Health. I won Carmindy's (What not to Wear) book, Positively Beautiful! Awesome! I love Carmindy, and she is such a good role model on self-esteem.
Thank you so much! I can't wait to recieve it :)

Winner of Silver Pearl Ring and 2 ATCs!

2008-10-31T07:29:00.007-05:00

Winner: HeatherLow !! Comment # 74

Courtesy of Random.org
--------------------------------
Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2008-11-01 05:03:12 UTC
------------------------------------

Congratulations HeatherLow! Once I have confirmation, and other details; it will take me a few days to make the ring to the specified size, and mail it out to you. I will send you an e-mail when I do, so you can expect it.

This was so much fun! I enjoyed coming on here everyday to look at the number of comments and reading them. You guys are all awesome!

I'll be posting this in the Mr. Linky on the Bloggy Giveaways site also, so that you can check out the winners from the also.

Thank you so much for your support & participating!

♥♥.·:¨¨:·.♥.♥.·:GIVEAWAY:·.♥♥.·:¨¨:·.♥♥

2008-10-27T05:00:00.021-05:00

Giveaway closed!

Bloggy Carnival starts today!! YAY!! And I'm hosting my second giveaway. I had such a blast last time I couldn't resist.

The Prize:

a Silver Pearl Ring (custom-made in your size or specified size)
Two original Holiday/Winter themed Artist Trading Cards (ATCs)

Elegibilty:

* You don't have to be a blogger to participate.
* Everyone!! I will ship internationally.

Starts - Ends - Notification:

*Starts: Monday, October 27, 2008
*Ends: Friday, October 31, 2008 @ Midnight CDT
*Draw will be done, and winner notified by Saturday, November 1, 2008 using Random.org.
*Winner will have till Monday, November 3, 2008 @ 10pm CDT to acknowledge prize.

► RULES ◄

One entry per person (make sure to have valid e-mail address and name in your comment). Leave it like this if you don't want to be spammed (eg. lagazdesigns AT mts DOT net ).

Take a look around my blog, and leave a comment here on which piece of artwork or jewelry you like the most.

It's that easy! Please check out the other Bloggy Giveaways that are happening this week, by clicking the link or the button at the top of the page.

GOOD LUCK!

New Mural Designs

2008-10-26T17:48:00.014-05:00

Earlier I posted that I was making a new mural at work (school), and that I had my Grade 9 students helping me out. It's been a long wait for our paint and materials, but we finally got them on Thursday and we've put on the first coat of primer. YAY!!! My students were so happy that they were able to paint. Now hopefully everything goes according to plan.

The mural is based on the Seven Sacred Teachings once again, but it will be inspired from the NorthWest Coast artforms.

Each colored panel will represent one of the Sacred Seven animals, and I used colors that are common in most tribal cultures. In each colored panel, is a "window" where the corresponding animal design will be placed. It will be a fairly simple looking design, but I didn't want to detract from the complexity of the Northwest Coast forms.

I'll leave you to look at some of the animal designs that I have so far: Buffalo, Eagle, Bear and Beaver. I still have yet to do: Wolf, Turtle and Sabe. I'll post those when I am done them. Enjoy!

Mossy Green Silver Weave Ring

2008-10-26T17:18:00.010-05:00

Some more bling!! Man, I love making these rings, they are so timeless looking. I love wearing mine.
My friend, and Resource teacher, Bonnie ordered this ring as an anniversary present for herself (via her husband). LOL! The mossy green really compliments her skin tone, and looks great on her hand :) So here are some drool worthy pictures for you to peruse!

Bloggy Giveaway Carnival Month!!

2008-10-19T14:00:00.003-05:00

I just wanted to let you guys all know that it is Bloggy Giveaway Carnival this month! Actually it begins next week, Oct 27th - 31st, 2008, and I am so excited!

Lots of Blogs, Lots of Prizes! You have to go thru the list and enter! So click on the Bloggy Carnival Badge at the top of the page for more details.

I'll be hosting a giveaway next week also, but I'm not sure what to give away. A ring? Earrings? Cufflinks? An original Artist Trading Card? Hmmm....I had better get a move on and figure it out :) So check back next week!!

Books, and Magazines!

2008-10-19T11:38:00.015-05:00

This year at Illustrated ATCs has been a big year. All the community members have completed some wonderful swaps and the most amazing cards! Everyone's gallery is so full of eye candy, and there is such incredible talent, that some members of illustratedATCs.com wanted to share it with everybody!

Sal, Anne and Annie (owners/creators of illustratedATCs.com) had a great idea to make a compilation of everyone's work for a BOOK! Yes, a book! It is entitled "The Best of illustratedATCs.com 2007". While they couldn't fit everyone's artwork in, they did have themes that we could submit for. Figurative Arts, Dark and Gothic, Funky Cats, and Whimsical, to just name a few.

Shel (long-standing member of iATCs.com, and owner of PotBelly Bears), also created a book, focusing on the amazing collaborative talents of our members at iATCs.com. Her book, entitled "Colors: A Collaborative Perspective", treats us to a gorgeous array of original artwork, featuring small "inchies", large canvases, sculptural work and mixed media, to name a few. Each creation shows each members talents focused on a particular color; a true artist's palette.

Both of these books are available at Lulu.com, an online print-on-demand publisher. These are great books for the art enthusiast, artist trading card collector, professional or the person who just likes to look at the pretty pictures ;)

Click on the links above, or on the pictures to purchase. They make wonderful presents :)

Also Art Trader Magazine Volume 4 is out! I apologize for not posting about Vols. 2 & 3, I completely forgot, but they are still available for download at Arttradermag.com.

This quarterly magazine has a lot to offer to the Mail artist. It provides inspiration, new techniques, wonderful artwork to drool over and mini-tutorials!
I love getting this magazine, it is so informative, and I love the layout. And the people who put it together, they do it so well that you really get to know them. Did I say that I love this mag!? You definitely need to check it out, you will definitely know what I'm talking about when you see it!

Currently, it's only in Adobe PDF (online publication), but in the new year they are hoping to release it in print! All four 2008 magazine in one book! There's nothing like holding a book in your hand and perusing to your hearts content. Keep an eye out over at Arttradermag.com or here for more details!

I've neglected my blog...

2008-10-11T22:03:00.005-05:00

Shame Shame on me!

I've been so busy with work (mostly work), and other little projects at home, that I haven't uploaded anything new lately. Which is unfortunate, because the Bloggy Giveaways is coming up, and I've hardly posted anything worthwhile.

News: I'm starting a new mural at school (work). I love the people at my workplace, they always support me in my artwork. They want me to work with some students, and have them help me paint a mural in the Guidance room. Which is not a problem. My students seem to be really excited, and now we're just waiting on our paint order to come in so that we can get started. I would like to get it done before Christmas. It shouldn't take too long, as the design is not to convoluted like most of my work. It will be based on the Seven Sacred Teachings, and have the seven animals of the houses. The animals will be done in the NorthWest Coast artform, which is difficult to design, especially if you are not immersed in the local culture; but enjoyable nonetheless. I'll be posting the designs soon in my blog so you guys can see :)

Also, I'm going to be setting an up ETSY shop soon. I figured why not? I'll be selling my jewelry, and artwork. Some people have been asking if I will sell prints of my Totem cards, and I am seriously thinking about it. I think they would be nice as greeting cards. So be on the lookout. I'm hoping to have it all set up before Bloggy Carnival days.

Well, that's about it. I'll be posting some new pics of artwork and jewelry in the next little while. Enjoy!

A Graduation Present

2008-08-06T00:31:00.012-05:00

"Garnet Silver Weave Ring" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir). August 2008. A huge emerald-cut Garnet sits securely within looping prongs. While a glittering weave of sterling silver wraps along the sides. A bold ring, with lots of sparkle!

This ring is for my twin sister, Jacquie. She's finally graduated from her University course, after 7 long years. She took a program through Brandon University called P.E.N.T. (Program for the Education of Native Teachers). It enabled her to continue working at the Junior High as an Educational Assistant, and do her Student teaching. She took time off from our school year, so that she could go back to University during the Spring/Summer courses. It was a long haul, but she made it, with the highest marks in the class!
Jacquie had gotten this lab simulated Garnet about a year ago, intending me to make a ring for her. I wanted to be able to mount the faceted stone a different way, than the way I did my Amethyst ring. While it looks similar at first glance, the looping prongs continue back into the shank of the ring. Makes for slighter bigger ring shank, but a very secure base for the gemstone. It turned out really good, and it looks pretty good on my hand too :P

Jacquie has always wanted to be a teacher, and now she gets to realize her dream this fall. She gets to teach Grade 8 in the school where we both work at, although she's not an EA anymore. I am still though *sigh* Anyways...
She's a very good teacher, strict, but fair, and always tries to make the class excting for the students. Jacquie has a passion that she wants to instill in her students, so that the learning experience is that much more enjoyable.

I am very proud of my Evil Twin, I am very proud in knowing a person like her.

Love you, Jacquie! And Congratulations!

And the Winner is......UPDATE

2008-08-01T18:25:00.013-05:00

UPDATE :We have confirmation!!! YAY!

New winner: Neen Comment #97

Courtesy of Random.org
--------------------------------
Here are your random numbers:

97
Timestamp: 2008-08-03 23:18:39 UTC
------------------------------------

Since my original person did not send a confirming e-mail, I did another draw. For this draw, I removed commenter #60 from my list and used Random.org to pull a number from the new list.

I'll be sending Neen's prize to her Monday. I hope you enjoy the earrings, Neen :)

I had a blast doing this! And I loved the comments. I'm hoping that I will be able to do this again soon. So please check back often :)
I'll link this post to Bloggy Giveaways in the Mr. Linky so that people can check from there also. Thank you to Bloggy Giveaways for hosting the carnival.

Thank you so much for your support & participating!

♥♥.·:¨¨:·.♥.♥.·:GIVEAWAY:·.♥♥.·:¨¨:·.♥♥

2008-07-28T17:36:00.012-05:00

Entering is now closed!

"Paisley Pearl & Labradorite Earrings" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir). July 2008. A beautiful pair of earrings that can totally dress up a casual outfit or take you out on a night on the town. All sterling silver wire, with peacock grey freshwater pearls, and faceted labradorite rondelles that have a flash of blue fire.

I'm participating in the Bloggy Giveaways Carnival, and I'm hosting my first giveaway! YAY!
This week I am giving away this pair of gorgeous earrings made by me!

You don't have to be a blogger to participate, although you must leave your name and e-mail in your comment so that I can contact you. Leave it like this if you don't want to be spammed (eg. lagazdesigns AT mts DOT net ). I will ship anywhere, as I want everyone to participate. The draw will be made Aug 1, 2008 @ 6pm CDT. I will give 2 days for the winner to acknowledge, otherwise I will draw again.

► RULES ◄

One entry per person (make sure to have valid e-mail address and name in your comment)
Take a look around my blog, and leave a comment here on which piece of artwork or jewelry you like the most.

It's that easy! Please check out the other Bloggy Giveaways that are happening this week, by clicking the link or the button at the top of the page.

GOOD LUCK!

Tarot Card Project @ illustratedATCs.com

2008-07-28T03:34:00.013-05:00

A bunch of us artists got together to publish a tarot card deck, with a "Zetti" twist to it. Everyone got to do 3-5 cards, and could use any medium they wished as long as they kept to the suit colours that were established.
It was very challenging to do these cards, as I am not familiar with doing "Zetti" style. It is a whimsical style, that I find hard to do, but I think I did okay. I did 3 cards, one of the Major Arcana, and 2 of the Minor Arcana.

Tarot card Series by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). June 2008. Prismacolor pencils, Sakura Glaze pens and ink.

"Wheel of Fortune" "Ace of Pentacles" "Queen of Pentacles"

ATCsforAll.com June Pick-A-Theme Swap

2008-07-28T02:46:00.012-05:00

"Stillness" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). July 2008. Sharpies, ink, Prismacolor pencils, glaze and sparklie pens. Barbra Streisand theme, photoreferenced from here.

"On the Road Again" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). July 2008. Prismacolor Pencils, Sharpies, and ink. Elephant theme. Photoreferenced from NightOwlZA/iStockphoto.com

"Draco" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). July 2008. Sharpies, Prismacolor pencils, ink and metallic pens. Dragon theme. Tutorial from NeonDragonArt.com.

"A Prince of Narnia" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). July 2008. Narnia theme. Sharpies, Prismacolor pencils, ink & metallic pens. Photoreferenced from here.

Hearts are for Healing, Remembering and to Inspire

2008-07-15T12:37:00.020-05:00

"Split Heart Ring"

by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir).

July 2008.

Hand-crafted ring, wrapped entirely in Sterling Silver wire. Tiny Hill Tribe beads surround each heart half, which is then filled in with 3mm Swarovski Crystal bicones, for a sparkling finish.

I made a new piece of jewelry, that has been in the works forever. It's a very special ring for a good friend from iATCs.com.

ANg requested a ring from me a looong time ago, but with me being sick, super busy, broke and what have you I finally finished it. ANg wanted a broken heart ring, as a remeberance for her and her baby, so the closest I came to was a Split Heart ring.

Here is my initial drawing plan (you'll probably need to click on it):

I really struggled putting it together. This is one of the instances where theory is so much easier than the practical. Initially the heart halves were going to be smaller, but they got lost against the wire weaving, so I made them bigger, and put more Swarovski crystals in. It really makes a statement now! It's adjustable to a point, so it can be a bit bigger when you need it.

I enjoyed making this ring for ANg. She really gave me a challenge to do something this special for her. I thought alot about her and what this ring would mean while I was making it. So it has a part of me in it, but lots of ANg too! She also inspired me to make a whole heart ring, which I hope to make very soon.

For those of us who need healing, remembering or inspiration, whether it be from ours or someone else's, that's what our hearts are for.

Colorful Stylized Portrait Swap @ illustratedATCs.com

2008-07-04T23:29:00.006-05:00

"Daphne (l), Eva (r) and Wendy (b)" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). Inspired by Martina Shapiro. May 2008.

"Lucy" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). Inspired by Martina Shapiro. July 2008.

Incan, Mayan, Aztec Swap @ illustratedATCs.com

2008-07-04T23:06:00.008-05:00

"Aztec Temple" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). November 2007.

"Mayan Jaguar" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). November 2007.

"Aztec Battle Dance" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). Photoreferenced from Melissa Chasse. February 2008.

Spring Pick A Theme 2008 @ IllustratedATCs.com

2008-07-04T22:25:00.015-05:00

"Friends in the Dark" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). Baby Sumatran Tiger and Baby Orangutan. Endangered animals theme. Photoreferenced. April 2008.

"African Zetti Princess" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). African Zetti theme. April 2008

"Don't Slouch and Slurp" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). Goth Girl at Charm school theme. April 2008.

"What a Cutie!" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). Creepy Puppet theme. April 2008.

"On the Run" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). Film Noir theme. April 2008.

"Lady Liberty" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). Statue of Liberty theme. April 2008.

"Blue Satin Carnivale Mask" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). Carnivale/Venetian Mask theme. Photoreferenced from ©iStockphoto.com/n1cky (?) . April 2008.

Long time No blog!

2008-07-04T22:16:00.003-05:00

Well it's been a long time, but it is finally summer. And that means summer holidays!! YAY!!!
I've been catching up on some art, creating some art and thinking about art. Also some jewelry in there too.
So now that I have summer holidays, I'm hoping to get caught up on blogging, post some new stuff...and maybe have a GIVEAWAY!! I'm still thinking as to what I'm going to put into my giveaway, but I'll announce it when you all can enter. So I think I'll post some new stuff, probably not alot of entry writing with it, but at least you can see the pretty pictures.

So let's get this party started!

Another Day in...

2008-05-14T22:45:00.005-05:00

...the "too much much to do but not enough time to do it in" Life.

Still lots going on for me. Really busy with work, and now I'm taking a new course to learn American Sign Language. It's really interesting, and I'm enjoying it. Lots of information to be sure!

Jewelry making is at a standstill for right now. I do have a new ring in the works, but getting the motivation and the time to coordinate at the same instance is not working right now. *Sigh* I hate these blocked periods.

The same goes for my art. My ATCs are slowing down, I still have to finish 2 swaps (Tarot and Colourful Stylized Portraits), but I haven't had much luck in creating. Also, I am supposed to do a painting to donate for a Silent Auction for Selkirk Friendship Centre's 40th Anniversary. I don't even have an idea sketched out yet. Time seems to slip away when I want it to slow down so that I can relax and create something.

Hopefully a little bit of a rant will blow off some steam for me. The school year is almost finished and I am eagerly awaiting summer holidays. I need to have a rest, and rejuvenate.

So hopefully soon, I will have something new to post here. Art, ATCs, jewelry and bits 'n pieces of my life :) Catch you later.

Spring Break is nearing it's end, but I got some stuff done!

2008-04-04T19:41:00.014-05:00

I was waiting for Spring Break so badly, and it's almost over! It went by fast, but I've been trying to squeeze every last minute out of it, so that I can catch up on some things. Like ATCs, that have been waiting forever to be finished and sent out. Normally I'm not like that, but I find that I am really busy these last few months, and trying to find time to do stuff for me is getting harder to do. I hope it eases up some, I like to play with my supplies and make something new and beautiful!

I was supposed to be in a few swaps over at illustratedATCs.com, but time got away from me and I had to bail out of the few that I was in. I felt really bad, as I have never done that before, but I had to let go something. One swap was the Coyote/Trickster swap that Meran is holding. She wanted images of tales that Coyote from Native Americans (and other cultures also) passed down. Usually these tales state how something came to be, and sometimes there's a moral in it, but mostly it's Coyote fooling around and getting into trouble. I really wanted to do this swap, and the images kept going through my head. Finally I just put them on paper, and figured I would trade them individually. I wanted Meran to have first pick, since I bailed on her, but she was willing to wait for me and still include me in the swap! That was awfully nice of her. Thanks Meran :)

Another swap I actually finished was the Spring Print Exchange over at ATCsforAll.com, hosted by Zhenechka. We have to make prints, either by linocuts, hand-carved stamps, letterpress, collography, and serigraphy, making an image that reminds you of Spring. I decided to hand-carve a stamp of a Pink Lotus flower. It turned out pretty good. I printed them on different coloured papers to add interest. I wonder what the others look like?

"Let's talk about you!" - Cedarseed's DA challenge

2008-03-12T19:36:00.003-05:00

Cedarseed (on DeviantART) posted a "Let's talk about you!" challenge on her journal. I thought it would be interesting to join in.
-------------------------------------------------

Cedarseed: The cultural interest in your work is close to my own heart. :D You create original animal totems in the style of NW coast tribes. Can you tell us more about that creative process, the design elements you keep in mind, in short how you manage to make them true to culture?

Me: Thanks, Cedarseed! I'm not sure if I make my totems true to culture, although I try very hard to. While the NW coast tribes (in particular) are not part of my aboriginal ancestral heritage, I still identify with their distinctive art style.

When someone makes a request, or I feel a need to make a totem, I start with the basic animal shape. I try different poses until it conveys what I want. Then I use that shape to set the symbolism/shapes into. I do the larger areas first, usually the body or head. Mainly these are the ovoids. Then the limbs of the animal, using U-shapes, split-Us and S-shapes (half U- shapes). Circles or ovoids are used for the eyes. Any negative space I try to fill up with the shapes that would "fit", either altering thier orientation or size. When I'm done, I scan it into my computer to cleanup the edges, and to colour it. So far, I have been using two colours for my totems (black and another colour). To me this is a good balance, black being very grounding and the other colour used to highlight certain areas of the totem. I may introduce more than two colours once I am more confident in this style.

Every symbol/shape that appears in the totems appear in Nature. Ovoids are found on the Skates (shark relative) of the Coastal waters, and the U-shapes are from feathers. Circles are used because everything happens in cycles. And the shapes have to "flow" well together, as each shape helps define the next one. Some totems are a struggle for me, for instance, the Jaguar. That one just did not want to be made! I was trying to make the forelegs with ovoid shapes, and nothing "flowed" right until I changed to using U-shapes and split-Us, then the piece started to come together.

It is a difficult art process, especially for someone who doesn't come into contact directly. I've studied other pieces, researched it for a long time before attempting it. I still don't know if I am doing it properly, but I do like what I have made, and so do other people. I guess my own style shows through, and that's what counts to make my pieces identifiable.
-------------------------------------------------

I don't get to talk about my art very much (except on this blog), and sometimes it is very hard to explain, but I think I did a pretty good job on this art process.

My First Commission!

2008-03-07T14:47:00.007-06:00

At the school where I work, a mini-clinic for teens is operating there on Wednesdays. The group that runs this clinic wants to create a welcoming atmosphere in their "waiting" area. Specifically some Aboriginal art by a local artist. The Resource Teacher and Guidance Counsellor immediately thought of me! YAY!! The Teen clinic wants 4....count'em...4 pieces of art. Three of them will be 24"x36" (roughly) and 30"x30". Two of them need to be companion pieces, and they need to have them before Feb 27th. I am so stoked!!
I have the two companion pieces planned out already...they will be my "Raven Stealing the Sun" and "Raven makes the Sun, Moon and Stars", just on a larger format. The other two, I'm not sure what it will be. I have an idea for a painting dealing with a Native American Prayer that may be appropriate. Even though the due date is quite soon, I am confident that I can do this. I am planning to do them in acrylic, so that they will dry fast, and my paintings are planned out so that makes it much easier. The thing I'm wondering about is how to hang them? They will be in a high traffic area in the Jr. High, so they need to be protected. I figure using a plexiglass over top will be good enough, not to thick so that it's heavy and fall off the wall, but strong enough to withstand some abuse it may get over time.

UPDATE
----------
Well the people at the Teen clinic changed their minds, and are wanting two pieces instead of four. I can't say that I'm not disappointed, but I understand that they are working within a constrained budget. Also, I sold them the paintings for a really good deal, much less than what I would have sold them for regularly.
I am finished them, and they turned out great! I have found out that Acrylic paint is very hard to blend, but I did it! They are very vibrant, and I am very proud of them. The people at the Teen clinic really like them as they give a pop of colour in their "waiting" area. Maybe they will want more later. I will post pictures when the paintings are attached to the wall.

ATCards.com Closing Down?!?!?! But a New one will be starting up!

2008-02-13T21:32:00.006-06:00

Say it ain't so!!

I've only been on there for not even a year, and now it's closing? I just got a bunch of cards from my artclub students to trade on there, and now I can't. Dang it! I'm hoping that someone will take it over, so that this large community will continue. It's a great place for people of all art levels can come and trade.

Well if anybody from ATCards or anyone for that matter, wants to trade ATCs with me, please contact me (click my profile to contact me), I love making new trades!

UPDATE!

I found out at the Flickr group where the members have gathered that there will be a new site for us to trade on!! YAY!! The new site administrators are hoping to make it live in two weeks, and it's called ATCsforall.com. Bookmark it now!

Winter Pick A Theme Swap @ illustratedATCs.com!

2008-01-22T20:13:00.001-06:00

"Frog Prince" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz) January 2008. Prismacolor pencils, ink, gel pen and pearl-ex powders.

"Crouching Gryphon" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz) January 2008. Prismacolor pencils, ink, gel pen and pearl-ex powders.

"Flaming Phoenix" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz) January 2008. Prismacolor pencils, ink, gel pen and pearl-ex powders.

"Lilith" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz) January 2008. Prismacolor pencils, ink, gel pen and pearl-ex powders.

"Ha Hai-i Wuhti- Hopi Earth Goddess"by Melissa Muir (Lagaz) January 2008. Hand-drawn, then scanned and printed with laser printer. Colour added with Prismacolor pencils, ink, gel pen and pearl-ex powders.

Ha Hai-i Wuhti is translated as "pour water woman." in the Hopi culture. She is shown pouring water from a gourd meaning the water of life is poured out to the world. Ha Hai-i Wuhti is also usually shown with an ear of corn in the other hand. She is the Mother who nourishes all beings be they kachinas, humans, sentient or insentient.

I really enjoyed this swap, and creating these cards was a workout! I love all the colours in them, they just jump out and grab you. So far I've gotten rave reviews about them. I'm sorry to see them go but I can't wait to see what I get in return!

Art Trader Magazine

2008-01-13T23:30:00.000-06:00

The ATC website that I frequent, has put out a new art trading magazine. It's chock full of info on how to do live trades, how to get started in ATCs, showcasing different artwork and, the best of all, new techniques!

I am so proud of my buddies over at IllustratedATCs.com, they have truly made a wonderful collaborotive piece of informative art :)

I encourage you to check it out! Go to ArtTraderMag.com to download the first issue, and please let them know what you think :) Also, they're looking for submissions!

IllustratedATCs Secret Holiday swap Part 1&2

2008-01-13T22:56:00.009-06:00

"Raven makes the Sun, Moon and Stars" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz) December 2007. Mixed media ATC. Laser printer ink, prismacolour pencils and pearl-ex powders.

"Masai Warrior Bracelets" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz) December 2007. 6"x4" Mixed Media Artwork. Prismacolor Art pencils, ink, and Sakura Sparklie Gel Pen. Original image from Philonz @ istockphoto.com

"Lemon Quartz and Prehnite set for Annie" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir) December 2007.

Well, I have participated in my first gift swap online and it went awesomely! It was at IllustratedATCs.com, and everyone who was involved got great gifts! I was partnered with two lovely ladies, Abi and Annie :) The above artwork and jewelry were the gifts that I had given to Annie. It was a challenge to make something for someone that you have never personally met. It was a good thing that we all included a list of likes/dislikes that helped our partners along. I was in such a hurry to get my pieces made and shipped that I forgot to take pictures! I am so glad that Annie and Abi took pictures of thier gifts, and were able to pass them along to me so that I can show them off! I don't have Abi's yet, but when I do I will post her stuff.

Part 2 with Abi's Gifts

These are the things that I gave Abi (except for one gift, her ring, which I don't have a picture of):

"African Giraffe" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). December 2007. Giraffe image in Prismacolor pencils, layered upon a background coloured in Prismacolors. Size 4" x 6".

"Abi Graffiti ATC" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). December 2007. Prismacolor pencils and ink.

African themed Apron by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). December 2007. Apron made from this tutorial. Made from heavy linen canvas. Alexander Calder's Sun image painted with Jacquard Fabric paints.

More Totems

2008-01-03T00:03:00.001-06:00

"Raven in Flight Totem" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz) December 2007

Both of these ATCs were made for a member on ATCards. Her name is Maryellen and she wanted to have cards that represented her spiritual guides.

"Jaguar Totem" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz) December 2007.

These particular ones took a long time to make, especially the Jaguar. He didn't want to be made too easily. I'm still enjoying the Northwest Coast style of art, and it's still hard to do, but I feel very proud of what I do accomplish. Maryellen is now enjoying her cards, and I hope that they bring focus and joy into her life.

I love how these cards are so powerful in thier simple shapes, and putting the shapes together creates a wonderful complexity for the individual animal and recipient. So far, each one of these Totem cards have been made for a specific person or purpose. Maybe that's why they take me so long. I have to find the right shape/vibe/reason to do these. I put alot of myself into my work, whether it be my artwork or my jewelry. So every piece that's out there is a little of me too.

Arrowhead necklace

2007-12-30T13:48:00.001-06:00

"Arrowhead Necklace" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir) December 2007.

Genuine flint arrowhead, wrapped securely with sterling silver wire. Hill tribe silver beads added for a more formal look. Genuine black leather cord, with hand-wrapped sterling silver ends. Hand-made sterling silver clasp completes this masculine necklace.

Made this for my brother-in-law Derwin for Christmas. He had gotten the arrowhead long time ago from Lower Fort Garry. It was my first time wrapping an arrowhead, plus making a masculine looking piece. I really like it, and it looks really good on Derwin. :) As I gain more experience with jewelry making, I want to be able to incorporate masculine creations also. Even men love jewelry! :)

Hope everyone had a great Christmas!!

Paisley Brooch Swag

2007-12-24T12:29:00.001-06:00

"Paisley Brooch Swag" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir) December 2007.

Hand-crafted paisley brooch, with a button pin and swag chains. Thin gauge sterling silver wire wrapped securely around a sterling silver frame. Woven within the paisley frame are matte white glass beads, citrine rondelles, sterling silver stardust beads, hill tribe silver, with 2 Prehnite rondelles, and faceted oval clear Quartz bead. On the button pin frame, are stardust beads, citrine rondelles, some hill tribe silver and a Freshwater Pearl. Sterling silver chain connected by sterling jumprings to both pins are removable for different looks.

Made this one for my friend Kathy as a Secret Santa gift. This is for all the hard work that she has done, and for helping me out with the attendance duties at school. Love you Kathy!!

Button part of brooch was made from Magda's button earring tutorial. Thanks Magda!!

Raven Stealing the Sun...

2007-11-18T22:24:00.001-06:00

"Raven Stealing the Sun" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). Hand drawn, then scanned, and re-sized in Photoshop. Background done in Prismacolor Art pencils, and Pearl-Ex powders. October 2007.

Here's another ATC that I did for someone on ATCards. Kevin (the person I traded with) is a big fan of my Totems, and he wanted a Aboriginal legend done just for him. He requested the legend "Raven Stealing the Sun" from the Northwest Coast tribes. I had never heard of it before, but I loved it right away.

I wanted it to have the colorfulness of my other pictures, but have a bold, eyecatching graphic. In the picture, you can see the man's hair flowing upward, where it is transforming into the Raven. The Raven flies upward over the Sun, where he takes it within himself as he steals it.

Kevin loved it when he received it. I'm glad that it made him happy. Apparently his partner Craig loves it too, and they are both looking forward to more of my work. YAY!

I really like how this one turned out, and I am positive that this one needs to be put onto a bigger canvas. Maybe done in oils, or watercolour if I'm brave enough.

Green Serenity

2007-10-06T19:54:00.001-05:00

"Green Serenity" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir) October 2007.

Handcrafted with Sterling Silver wire frames, and delicate scrolls. Coiled carefully with fine gauge sterling silver wire, and set off with Hill Tribe Silver beads, and Sterling Silver Stardust beads. The focal is beautiful Jade colored glass pear shaped briolettes that dangle serenely off the silver frames. Genuine Peridot teardrops accompany them to add to the preciousness of these pieces. Great for dressing up a casual outfit or taking out on a night in town.

These were created for a Silent Auction that my Aunt Sharon was helping out with this weekend. I worked as fast as I could on these, but I've been sick, so I went to the last possible minute to get these in. I really like them. Very girlie looking. I wanted something thats trendy right now, and this style seems quite popular. I'm pretty good at wrapping teardrop shaped beads now, since doing this project. :)

I gave extra business cards to display with it just in case. I might get an order from it, that would be so exciting! I hope that whoever gets this, enjoys it. I certainly enjoyed making it, and even though I designed it, I still wanted to see it in real life. I love seeing how things turn out. This one came out almost exactly like my design, and I am really pleased with that. That means I getting better at doing the planning stages, and measuring my components. Practice makes perfect.

I think I have one more piece to make this weekend, for a friend of mine ;)

Turquoise Silver Cuff

2007-09-30T23:02:00.002-05:00

"Turquoise Silver Cuff " by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir) September 2007.

A single turquoise brings about the focus on this cuff. Wood beads, and small turquoise set off the natural beauty of this gorgeous green-blue stone. Smooth silver & Stardust beads give it sparkle, while tiny hilltribe silver adds to the rawness of this piece.

Darla, my best friend, asked me if I could make something for her from this single turquoise bead. She had gotten it from her sister, Brandi, when she was teaching in Japan. It's a beautiful stone, and it's colouring leans towards the green end of the spectrum, which I prefer.

I figured a beautiful open cuff would do this one justice, and I'm always willing to make something for Darla ;) It turned out great, and when I was taking pictures of it, I tried and tried to find something that would really set it off. It looks very Aboriginal in design, and so my sister Jacquie suggested trying some cedar cuttings. Cedar is a Sacred Medicine, and since turquoise is one of many sacred stones, I thought it was appropriate. The picture turned out gorgeous, and I hope Darla likes it :)

Now I'm thinking I have to make something similar myself!

School is starting soon...

2007-08-29T02:03:00.001-05:00

And I won't have alot of time to update my blog. This past little while has been getting stuff ready for school/work for me and my daughter. It's just been crazy. Plus I've been doing more of the ATCs. I'll be posting those in a few days. I want to update regularly. Hopefully at least every couple of weeks, less would be ideal. I just have to make some time.

So don't worry, I have stuff to update, I just haven't had time to. Will post more soon!!

Crosshatching Technique -> Updated

2007-08-21T19:59:00.003-05:00

"Bollywood Bride" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz).Hand-drawn, then colorized in Photoshop. August 2007. Photoreferenced from ©iStockphoto.com/Atomicsparkle

So I've done some more ATCs. Only three of them though. I decided to try my hand at crosshatching. I've never done it before, and had no idea where to start. I figured if I used a photo-reference, and shifted it to gray-scale, it would give me a better idea as to where the values are. So that's what I did with these pictures. It was really hard. "Bollywood Bride" was my first one. I had to make them bigger than the standard ATC size, so that I could get the detail that I wanted. I think they turned out pretty good, for my first tries.

I wanted to add some colour to them, but I didn't want to screw them up. So I just coloured parts of them. I think it really gives them more pop and showcases my crosshatching =).

"Serenity" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). Hand-drawn, then colorized in Photoshop. August 2007. Photoreferenced from ©iStockphoto.com/neoblues

This image I really like. She is so pretty and I love lilies! I like how her lips and the flower are accentuated with the color. It gives it a "soft" feel, especially with the colours that I had chosen.

"Sailor Pin-Up Girl" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz).Hand-drawn, then colorized in Photoshop. August 2007. Photoreferenced from ©iStockphoto.com/Alvarez

I love the look of pin-up girls. So sexy, yet have that air of innocence. My sailor girl is really cute. I had real trouble with her hair though, but it turned out okay. Her coloured flower gives it a playful punch.

All these images I referenced, I got from iStockPhoto.com. They have beautiful pictures there, check it out!

UPDATED!

"Bellydancer in Red" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). Hand-drawn, then colorized in Photoshop. August 2007. Photoreferenced from iStockphoto.com/Cglow

Here's my latest one. This one was harder to do, as there was a lot of shadows and detail going on. I love the flaring skirt, it is so pretty!

So much art, so little time!

Turquoise!! Updated!

2007-08-19T23:42:00.001-05:00

"Turquoise Silver Weave Ring" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir) August 2007.

A Turquoise bead, set upon a sterling silver oval bezel. Wrapped securely onto a silver wrapped ring shank that sparkles.

I made another ring today. For my twin sister, Jacquie. I had just bought some turquoise beads the other day, and they were the perfect shape to make rings! They are really pretty looking, and smooth. The beads are towards the green end of the spectrum, but I like them better that way.

I wasn't sure how to set this bead, as it is oval shaped, and the hole is drilled length-wise. I would have preferred width-wise, but you have to work with what you got, right? Jacquie wanted the bead to sit a little higher, and was thinking of a nested bezel of sorts. She didn't want it messy looking though. I suggested making a oval ring bezel that sits underneath, that way it gives it the height she wants, and it would also solve my dilemma about how to attach it to the ring shank. She thought that was a good idea.

I really liked the style of Pippi's ring, and wanted to do something similar, but I figured something a little more simple looking would be good for Jacquie. Since she does her nails quite often in bold colors and whatnot, they would compete with each other.

It looks really nice, although I could have wrapped it tighter I think. Jacquie loves it, and it suits her hand very well. Now I have to get a move on with my other rings that are waiting to be made!

"Light Turquoise Silver Weave Ring" by Lagaz Designs (Melissa Muir) August 2007.

UPDATE! I made myself a turquoise ring. This one is lighter in hue, has a tigher wrap, and I added some hilltribe silver beads around to accent the bezel. It has a kind of raw look to it, because the tiny beads look a bit haphazard, but I like it!

Seven Sacred Grandfather Teachings...

2007-08-15T01:59:00.001-05:00

"Seven Sacred Grandfather Teachings Series" by Melissa Muir (Lagaz). Prismacolor Art Pencils, Pearl Ex Powders, & Ink. August 2007

I have finally done it! I am finished making my first set of ATCs! They are based on the Seven Sacred Teachings, and I am so proud! These guys may be small, but they have a lot going on. Alot of colouring went into these, but they look beautiful. So colourful and the lines reminscent of movement. I've posted them at my gallery at ATCards.com. I've gotten requests for trades already! How exciting!!
I'm going to be sad when they go, but they will go to good homes. But I saved scans of them, so I can print out ones just for me =)

Oh, I know it's just a bunch of cards,and you're probably wondering why I am going to all this trouble? Being creative and the love of ART is why!! Plus it a way to get my work out there, right?

Lagaz Designs - Art. Jewelry. Life.

Seven Sacred Grandfather Teachings cards - digital version

Missing Piece - Silver Version

A Missing Piece

Steampunk Design Challenge - Artbeads.com

Fabrics - by Me!

ID #8 & #9

ICAD or ICWICR...

Spirit Raven

Music Themed Funky Messenger Bags

Moonstone Paisley

Winter Enchantment with Artbeads.com

February Bling! Amethyst Circle & a Spring Ring!

Lemon Quartz 2 Pendant

Textured Aluminium, Freshwater Pearl & Lemon Quartz!

It's Fall Time!

Summertime with ArtBeads.com!!

Paisley Pearl & Labradorite Pendant

Silver and Glass: ArtBeads.com

New Amethyst ring!

Inchie Pendants

(Belated) Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Some new bags :)

Totem Cards - Fox, Cat, Dragonfly, the Sun, Raven, Sea Turtle and Spider

Swarovski Beads!!

Totes and Purses!

Graffiti Love

Northwest Coast Seven Teachings Mural finished!!

Whimsy Art

Gifts

Flower for Tellulah :)

Number and Colour Books for kids

Spring PAT 2009 on iATCs.com

Geez Long time no blog :)

No Bling Lately...I know :(

ArtTrader Mag Vol 6!! New division of illustratedATCs.com OPEN!

Spring Break has come and gone....dang.

More Harajuku Girls!

I got an Award!

Harajuku Girls Swap

Wizard of ODD Swap

Feathered Mask

Whimsy Art Workshop

Bright Colours

Ravens

"Gurba" Earrings

Tuscany

Character Pick A Theme on illustratedATCs.com

Fine Art Valentines VI

Encouraging young people to explore ATCs and ART!

Fall Pick A Theme 2008

Winner for "Gurba" Earrings!

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Mini Nautilus Pendant

Bloggy Giveaways start this week!!!

Seafoam and Natural Mosaic Pendants

Art Trader Vol 5 is out and Petite Artiste article...

Mother of Pearl Cufflinks and Purple Star Mosaic Necklace

Secret Santa...

Most of the hubbub is over...

Merry Christmas Everyone!!

Strathmore Great Holiday Swap

Christmas is coming...

Time to change!

Hmmm, something's wrong

I won a prize!

Winner of Silver Pearl Ring and 2 ATCs!

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New Mural Designs

Mossy Green Silver Weave Ring

Bloggy Giveaway Carnival Month!!

Books, and Magazines!

I've neglected my blog...

A Graduation Present

And the Winner is......UPDATE

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Tarot Card Project @ illustratedATCs.com

ATCsforAll.com June Pick-A-Theme Swap

Hearts are for Healing, Remembering and to Inspire

Colorful Stylized Portrait Swap @ illustratedATCs.com

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