Do I look different to you?

...because since I took a class with Donna Downey I have changed.

Oh, but it's a good thing!

I've always admired art that included paint but have always been afraid to try it. In my mind I thought, "I'm not a painter." Oh sure, I can paint a basic frame or wooden box, but painting on canvas and having fun with it? Never before.

And now, never again will I shy away from it. I loved it!!! By the end of the 6-hour class my hands were covered in paint, gesso, gel medium, and ink. It was glorious!!!

And I finally got to use watercolor paints and they were SOOOOO much fun. I want to practice (play with them) for hours!!!

* * * * *

The next couple of photos are of Donna's inspiration journal. She graciously allowed us to photograph it, and I did take a bunch of pictures, but I'll just post my favorites here because you can see them for yourself on her blog.

Over the top creative. I'm swooning again just looking at these photos!

I have to admit that until I signed up for this class at PaperVineyard I had never heard of Donna Downey before - I just signed up because I loved the photos of the project we'd be creating. I have probably seen her work in the past, but never put a name to it. After reading the comments left on my last blog post I was surprised that so many of you knew who she was, so I thought I'd do a little research before I headed to my class that day. By the time I was done and headed over to the class, I was totally star-struck and nervous about being in her presence. :o) Silly, huh?

I will tell you this, Donna is a doll. Very down-to-earth, genuine, funny, talented, great teacher...I could go on and on. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to have met her and learned from her. Thanks to her I have new skills and I plan to use them! A lot.

Thanks, Donna, for the over-the-top-inspiration and the gentle push to try something new! I had a fabulous time at your class!!!

♥