My New Art Blog

When I started this blog over a year ago, one of my intentions, in addition to exploring all aspects of creativity, was to explore my own personal expression.

As someone who had worked in creative environments, mostly museums for many years, I had never really paid attention to my own art during that time. Leaving that part of my life behind allowed me more time to focus on my own work. I've posted some of my collages here but have now decided to dedicate an entire blog to my creative work and process.

DofC Designs will focus on collage*art*jewelry and document this new journey I have begun. Although, I'll still be covering design and the visual arts here and may occasionally toss in an image or 2 of my work.

• Look forward to seeing you there!

Graffiti Knitting

(Image Courtesy of Knitta)


I love the creative spirit of Houston based Knitta. Inspired by graffiti art, Knitta was formed in 2005 when a group of knitters were looking for other uses for their unfinished projects and unused balls of yarn.

They came up with the idea to take their knitting to the public sphere, wrapping everything from light posts to fire hydrants. Unlike graffiti art, Knitta's work is made from colorful yarn that does not damage property and is not permanent.

• How can you transform something by changing its context?

Creative Retreats

I know many people have made a resolution this year to spend more time on creative projects. Ok, I am one of them! So, now is the time to clear your schedule and sign up for a creativity or arts retreat in 2008.

It's a great opportunity to focus solely on creating without the distractions of every day life. There are retreats held in a variety of national and international locations.

Creativity Retreats

Creativity Workshop features creative writing, drawing, storytelling and memoir

Arts Retreats

ShawGuides lists arts and crafts workshops in the US and abroad

Art and Soul retreats offer instruction in paper, fabric, jewelry and fiber arts

Arcangelo Productions hosts art and life workshops focusing on collage, assemblage and photography

Artiscape held in Sandusky, Ohio features more than 60 diverse art workshops

• Or create your own retreat by designating an hour, a day or a weekend to creating.

Creative Capital Announces 2008 Artists

I first heard about Creative Capital during an Arts Policy class in grad school. Back then, they were just another fledgling arts organization. Today, they are one of the nation's premier organizations supporting artists.

They recently announced their 2008 grant recipients. With an initial award of $10,000, 41 projects from 52 artists in film/video and the visual arts were awarded grants.

Starting next year, they will be accepting applications for innovative projects in literature and performing arts.

• See the complete list of grant recipients here.

Are Creative Workers Healthier?

Yes. According to a recently released study, workers whose jobs involve solving complex problems and who have opportunities for continued learning report better overall health.

The study's lead author, sociology professor John Mirowsky, said:

"The most important finding is that creative activity helps people stay healthy. Creative activity is non-routine, enjoyable and provides opportunity for learning and for solving problems. People who do that kind of work, whether paid or not, feel healthier and have fewer physical problems."

• Read more here.

New Year, New Look

The new year is a great time to make a creative change. That's why I've redesigned the look of this blog. Hopefully, the sunny colors will inspire you too.

Not only have the colors changed, but soon I'll be adding new features here in the upcoming months.

I'm also working on a new blog focusing solely on visual art and collage, featuring my own pieces.

Finally, you can now find us at www.doseofcreativity.com.

• What can you creatively change in the new year?