Color Inspiration Daily: 10. 03. 12

Emerson Fry Illustration by Caitlin McGauley (via)

In My Studio: An Elephant on a Bicycle

So I've gotten into a bad habit recently of starting a movie on Netflix and then becoming completely immersed in something else while it plays. I probably only glance at the film (usually hidden in some forgotten tab) once or twice. Isn't that terrible! My best guess for this new vice is that the sound of the movie playing helps to distract the part of my mind that would otherwise be taken up with worry, doubt, or idle thought. Because of that I can then focus much more clearly on what it is that I really want to do. Maybe I should give podcasts and audio books a try too (any recommendations?)!

Anyhow in my case the thing I've been wanting do so more often than not lately is to draw. The other night I popped on an episode of Mad Men thoroughly planning to watch it, but then the theme song queued and immediately a bow-tie clad elephant riding a bicycle popped into my head and I had to start drawing him right away. I thought I'd show him to you today in his unfinished state, then I'll post again soon with some process photos that I will take as I work to give him some additional character using color and texture.

On a somewhat related side note...I have the toughest time drawing anything unless it is facing left or face-forward. Isn't that odd?! Just last night I discovered that they make little posable wooden models for 4-legged animals (like the wooden ones they make of humans) so I might have to pick up one of those. At least it would give me something to go off of while working on my sketches, since there aren't exactly bicycle-riding elephant resource photos floating around for me to practice with. Anyhow, my goal is to start doodling poses in my sketchbook every day until it becomes second-nature to draw an elephant (or llama, bear, etc.) at a 3/4, or some other currently challenging angle. Wish me luck!

Giveaway: Win a $75 Shopping Credit from Cutting Edge Stencils

After a long break, I've decided to begin hosting giveaways for my sponsors here on Creature Comforts again. Today I'm excited to start things off with two generous prizes of $75 (shopping credits) offered by Cutting Edge Stencils.

My favorite use for stencils is to spruce up underappreciated elements in the home...like the kick boards (is that what they're called) on a staircase or the inside of a cupboard or closet (that little pop of prettiness will put a smile on your face every time you open the door). Of course there are loads of other great ways to use stencils, and I'm sure you'll think of something wonderful to do with yours if you win.

Details and how to enter for your chance to win: THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED 10/09/12

• Two winners will be chosen. Each winner will received one $75 shopping credit to Cutting Edge Stencils. Redeemable for products only. No cash value.

1. Leave a comment using your first name and last initial, and tell me what stencilling project you're looking forward to creating if you're the lucky winner.
2. Giveaway open to both US and International readers.
3. Shipping charges will be covered by Cutting Edge Stencils. International winners will be responsible for customs fees if applicable.
4. Giveaway ends 10/8/12. Winners announces 10/9/12

For some great inspiration visit Cutting Edge Stencils on Pinterest and their blog.

Full disclosure: Cutting Edge Stencils is a sponsor of Creature Comforts, but no financial compensation was received for this post. The opinions expressed are my own.

Color Inspiration Daily: 10. 02. 12

Golden Pyramid Art Print by Carl Kleiner

October 2012 Calendar Download

Happy October friends! Just wanted to pop in to share this month's free calendar download with you all. The weather has been cooling off a tiny bit around here (yippy), and it's getting me excited for colorful changing leaves, crisp Autumn mornings...and magical woodland scenes (even if they are only imaginary).

To download your printable calendar page, simply click on the image above (your download will begin immediately). You can also find all the past calendar pages here. And as always, I hope you'll feel inspired to send the illustrated portion of the calendar as a postcard when the month is through (or just print out an extra copy and send one right now). xo Ez