{tink makes art}

Here are some books I wish I had sitting on my coffee table ready to read. What books are on your wishlist?

Black & White (and a bit in between) by Celerie Kemble

Creative Display by Geraldine James

The Natural Home by Hans Blomquist

In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan

The Beekeeper’s Bible by Richard A. Jones and Sharon Sweeney-Lynch

This suit by We are Handsome would go well with my wolf sweatshirt, don’t ya think? Man, sometimes my nerdy side really comes out…

Jillian and I moved into a cute, little bungalow last November, and I am finally getting around to telling you about it! It is the most adorable house you’ve ever seen with a full basement and full attic, large front and backyards, original wood floors, and a sweet retro kitchen. We love it! Jillian and I are both artists, so, of course, our house is full of artwork (both our own and our friends). Our styles fit nicely together creating a mid-century modern meets bohemian style meets rustic farmhouse. Maybe? Ha.

See more photos of the living room, breakfast area, and kitchen after the jump. I’ll save my bedroom for a future post…

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My lack of posts this week may give you some indication that well, I’ve been somewhat busy. To top it off, I returned my work computer early this week, which left me computerless (YIKES!) until my amazing friend, Jennifer, gave me an old on of hers to use. Saved. Now, back to blogging and staying on top of my freelance editing work.

A little life update…

I’ve been nannying a two-year old boy, Henry, three times a week, which keeps getting better and better with each day I spend with him. I’m starting to learn his little idiosyncrasies, his favorite toys and books, and his daily routine. He is a delight. I’ve also picked up a few shifts a week at Foster’s Market in Durham. A lovely place to eat and relax. Come by! Although still looking for a creative full-time job and hoping to move, eventually, to the west coast, I’m doing OK. I like what I am doing, and I can pay my bills. That’s all I need.

So, what’s my plan for the weekend besides catching up on my freelance work? Well, tomorrow night is the annual Central Park School for Children “Save Our Arts” benefit show at Motorco featuring Mount Moriah, Megafaun, and The Beast. Only $10, it’s sure to be a good time. What are your plans?

photo via cardigans and cookies

Have you seen these phone handsets that plug into your smart phone, iPad, or computer from Native Union? They’re so cute and ingenious! I want one for home officing. They come in all sorts of colors…even gold!

[PDF, 1.9 MB]

I am a strong advocate for our rights as American citizens…many of which are often being reduced by our government…for our protection? I don’t think so. Let’s get real. Please write your Congress person urging he/she to vote “NO” for the Protect IP Act (PIPA) in the Senate and the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) in the House, which would censor the Web and impose harmful regulations on American businesses. Read more about these bills here, and write your Congress here: End piracy, not liberty.

“Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

There is power in numbers. Let your voice be heard.

My sister got me a light faux fur vest for Christmas, so, of course, ideas for outfits have been beaming through my head. I love it! I found a couple outfit inspirations/ideas to share…

with skinny jeans (via dangerous bambina)

layered with a longer sweater/vest (via The Chrisella Factor)

with shorts (via Wendy’s Lookbook)

with a belt (via Pinterest)

As a portrait artist, I’ve often struggled with the saleability of my work. Do people really want a huge graphic portrait of someone they don’t know or even someone they do know taking up a substantial amount of wall space? Popular icons, family pets, and loved ones are always best sellers, but how exactly do you decorate with such a huge face?!

I’ve come across some pretty fantastic examples of the use of large portraits – in most cases, colorful, graphic portraits – displayed in the home. It is important that the style of the artist and the mood of the painting fit with your aesthetic. In most cases, one large portrait is best left to stand on its own, since it’s already making a loud and proud statement. I’d also recommend purchasing a portrait of someone who won’t bore you in a month; or, if you’re commissioning a painting, selecting a person/pet that will stay on your “favorites” list for a while.

Do you have a large portrait hanging in your home? Send me a picture! I’d love to see how you’ve displayed your art. If you don’t, would you consider hanging a big face on your wall? Why or why not?

Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5