Happy Thoughts 365 ~ #26 ~ April Showers Decorated Envie

Here's an envelope I decorated for a recent mail art swap. The envelope is a big bubble mailer which I used to house an art journal and a piece of art. The theme was "April Showers." 

This little boy was from a vintage Childcraft book full of stories and poems. I loved the 1970's illustrations and photos. I couldn't resist his little scrunched up face under that raincoat. Inspired by the Wizard of Oz, I wanted to turn his "black and white" humdrum world into a world of color and rainbows. So I added details with acrylic paints and also did some stamping. I think it conveys his youth and optimism. It certainly makes me happy! 

Rain, Rain go away.

Come again another day.

Little Johnny wants to play.

OLD RHYME

Happy Thoughts 365 ~ #19 ~ Don't Stop Believin'

Don't Stop Believin' ~ Polyvore Collage by Sandra Martin #happythoughts365

This collage is a bit surreal, with a touch of Alice in Wonderland, and a nod to the 80's band Journey. 

It seems that every so often I am engaged in the same old battle....unable to believe in myself or my talent. I think all artists deal with this. One minute we're in love with our work and the next minute we want to throw it in the garbage. Or we feel pretty good about ourselves until we start comparing our work with a fellow artist and then our work suddenly feels crummy. 

So if life seems stacked against you, or someone tries to rain on your parade (even your own negativity), remember to keep the faith. Fight to maintain your position in that realm of wonder. 

Happy Thoughts 365 ~ #18 ~ Dance in the Rain

Dance in the Rain ~ Polyvore Collage by Sandra Martin #happythoughts365

"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass... it's about learning to dance in the rain."

Be sure to check out my Pinterest board "Singin' in the Rain."