July 27th, 2010 at 3:28 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
Artful imagery from organic and natural sources…..
One of my granddaughters visited with me this past week-end and we went on short adventures around the old farm place. So many elements we fail to view with excitement as in the eyes of a child. Some examples are….
“A beautiful ruffled Barbie Party skirt”…..( a natural woodland fungus)

Ribbons of Fantasy
“Mr. King Toad of the Black Lagoon” …..( a frog in the edges of one of the smaller ponds)

Color and imagination
“The hand-clapping flowers”…..(large leaf caladiums)

Simple Sounds...
“Tree nets”…..(an old hammock between two leaning trees)

Fluid movements
“Oh, Vampires!”….(the evening bats soaring above the deck)…too fast for pictures
What does your inner child see when you look at everyday elements?
doodles
July 26th, 2010 at 1:12 pm
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
I Received an E-mail from The Quilt Show….I am so excited!!

Twilight Tales of two Twisted Sisters
“—– Original Message —–
Sent: Tuesday, July 20, 2010 2:30 AM
Subject: Congratulations! Your Quilt has been selected as the “Quilt of the Day”
Dear DianeDoodles,
Congratulations!
We love the quilts by our TQS members and are now showing them off every day on the “Daily Blog”. Your Quilt “Twilight Tales Of Two Twisted Sisters” has been chosen to appear on July 27, 2010. You can update any comments or descriptions about the quilt before that date. (Be sure to give credit to designers, patterns, quilters, etc. so that you are fully accurate about its origin and the creators.)
Toot your horn and let your friends know about your quilt being highlighted. Anyone can get to the blog by coming to our homepage www.thequiltshow.com and clicking on the “Enter” Button or the “Daily Blog”.
Thank you for sharing your quilt with our world community.
Alex Anderson & Ricky Tims”
July 22nd, 2010 at 11:26 pm
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
Another tour for : “Time’s Portal” !
Travelling today to arrive at the Page-Walker Art Center in Cary, NC for the No Fear textile/quilting art exhibit,
PAQA-S . Exhibit scheduled July 30, through September 20, 2010.
doodles

A Glimpse of "Time's Portal"
July 17th, 2010 at 1:36 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
Summertime…
the pace is different than any other season of the year here in the south.
Our growing season is at the peak, landscape projects are underway, and family get-togethers are planned.
I recently hosted my mom’s 80th Birthday party/cook-out. It was a wonderful time of making memories, taking lots of pictures & making videos….and eating pulled pork from the grill, lucious fruits, and of course birthday cake. There were family members I missed, who could not come and be a part of this celebration with mom.
So many times I am inspired to make an art piece while observing others…a big smile, a stolen kiss, catching fish at the pond, and watching does with new fawns hiding within the tall grasses of the field.
It is almost a sensory overload…so I do what countless others do….sketch, make notes, and snap pictures with the phone so I may remember not only the image…but recall the feeling of the sun, warm breeze while in the swing, smells of the roses, taste of the Summer Sangria, sounds of laughter among the young ones and story telling from the older ones.
Summertime… in the south ~
doodles

Family: Cartoons Of Summer
A Cartoon Collage of So MUCH ENERGY!
June 24th, 2010 at 12:59 pm
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
On one sunny day, I picked Blackberries from the field. They were perfect for use to dye fabrics!
Several varied berry patterns and hues of blues, purples, and reds.
I added some greenery and pounded the leaves which gives contrast.
A fun Project!
doodles

Berry One

Country Berry 2

Very Berry Blue
June 24th, 2010 at 12:29 pm
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:

Vintage Slip/Re-make Delicate Dress
Current projects during this spring have included easy and fun makeovers for vintage slips and dresses.
I will see a vintage garment and right away feel inspired to remake it into something elegant and fun.
the following dresses are only a few of my Altered Couture pieces.
Enjoy!
doodles

make-over/little Black Dress

Vintage Black Dress--AFTER make-over
Another Vintage Black Dress: From Short….

Vintage Short Dress.....Before Make-over

From Short & Plain....to Longer and FUN!
June 8th, 2010 at 7:13 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:

Ribbons of Life, on Exhibit
June 8th, 2010 at 12:39 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
Greetings again!
It has been a few days since my last post. More in the way of Art Quilt Design Dreaming than actual hands-on work.
Life has been full of different experiences each day. Each day has had it’s own challenges, turmoil’s, and also blessings.
I am so thankful my family members are all still breathing and in God’s care. My hands can only reach a certain distance to offer help, comfort, hugs, and the limited resources of which I may offer.
It is an abundant blessing to know that …. at the point my touch fails, there is another to pick up the support and love… to carry forth and extend healing and joy beyond my abilities.
Art in Motion with Emotion….yes, that thought came to me for my comfort…to apply this in textile /fiber art…..it will be among my next projects.
Let your inspirational art soothe and comfort your heart!
Blessings and joy,

Joy in Motion
DianeDoodles
May 19th, 2010 at 11:50 pm
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
A good day for getting out the SetaColor and playing with fabric, color, and imagination!
Pictures soon,
doodles
May 16th, 2010 at 6:38 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:

"Muppet-Muffin"
Dear friends,
My lack of recent postings are due to a couple of family events;
moving from my previous family home of 20 years and my son’s recent serious accident.
I have such gratitude within my heart for blessings extended to me and my family.
I am so thankful my son is still with us and will heal with time and therapy.
Happy Wishes,
Doodles
April 25th, 2010 at 6:02 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
I have two pieces entered for the jurying process at the online, Infinity Art Gallery, “An Autumn Evening” and “Energy in Flight”, (Diane Lochala)
Take a look and Wish Me Luck!
doodles

"Energy In Motion" dcl

"An Autumn Evening" dcl
April 25th, 2010 at 1:28 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
SO, I missed going away this week to the AQS Paducah Quilt Show for the first time in…YEARS! I really regret not getting away together with my best friends. It has always been a very special girl time….talking about the newest and favorite things in quilting, our books we exchange, fun meals together, and sharing our creative dream quilting projects. Girls, you know who you are…and I miss you!
This has been a week of endings and new beginnings for me in many areas of my life. I have cried a lot, released unfulfilled dreams to the winds, and burned away years of “things” and collections of which I no longer need.
I am starting anew….. unburdened with the parts in life which I can not change….accepting the new “me”. I will work toward better health, pain management, and recognizing the pure joy of my days.
This past week I laughed a BUNCH with Delia, one of my granddaughters. A precious happy girl who helped me laugh, feel an enormous amount of love, and start new dreams for the second part of my life. Her unfettered joy of blowing soap bubbles and watching them float away….riding her new bike….eating mac & cheese…..shopping w/ Granny and reminding me to Stop and Look Both Ways—before I cross the parking area as we head to the bookstore.

A Delia Smile!
That’s It!!!! I have failed to “Stop and Look Both Ways” in my life recently!
Thank you Delia….I needed the reminder.
April 9th, 2010 at 11:37 pm
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
Using recyclable items for art or personal use…
I do not make profit using the logos or trademarks of favorite product labels, I recycle and we do have a freedom of creative expression, right?(never-mind…don’t go there)
I LOVE COFFEE! I am addicted to coffee. I am a coffee snob. I buy whole beans and let the Cusinart grind and then brew the perfect cups of coffee.
I regretted throwing out those comforting “Mylar/foil/poly” packages. I began to wash, dry, and store some of my favorites to use in a project. Last October I decided it was time to play with some of my favorite things
I cut pieces of the bags and carefully ironed them to Steam-A-Seam 2, and with organza, lining fabric and a few other items….I made the most fun purse/tote/bag. I have written out full instructions, warnings, and have pictures of each step, which will be published at a later time.
One of the bags, as seen here:

Doodles Coffee Bag #3 Photo- all Rights reserved
Oh, did I tell you I enjoy tea?? Yes, I drink flavorful steeped cups of tea while using my best china, Old Country Roses, By Royal Albert, so of course I needed to make a “Tea Bag” As Seen Here:

Doodles Tea Bag #5- Photo, all rights reserved
Uhmmm, did I mention I sometimes sneak a few bites of chocolate as I am sipping my afternoon coffee?
Why not a fun and funky cap??
Yes, it is funny…and fun…and there is no other like it……

- Doodles Candy Cap #2, Photo, All Rights Reserved
no, I would not wear it to church or to an opera…but it does get attention in the mall!
USE your imagination and go for it!!
doodles
April 6th, 2010 at 1:22 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:

"Shadowed Swanlight"_dcl
April 6th, 2010 at 12:57 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:

"SHADOWED SWANLIGHT"
SHADOWED SWANLIGHT”
One of the art quilt groups I associate with is Fiberarts Connection of So Ca.
I will post a little about my Poetic Challenge piece for March.
I have always enjoyed reading the books and poems of John O’Donohue.
One of my all-time favorite books is Anam Cara, given to me by a special friend.
My 12″ X 12″ art piece is “SHADOWED SWANLIGHT”
Inspired by the poem, Swanlight -John O’Donohue
Enjoy!
March 25th, 2010 at 12:12 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
Springtime, nothing compares to the first warm, sunny days,
the smell of jonquils, buttercups, and daffodils,
watching the robins and bluebirds…
Ahhhh Springtime!
March 24th, 2010 at 11:53 pm
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
An Update…Spring News!
I am excited and pleased to be notified that my “Time’s Portal” has been chosen as one of the art quilts for the ‘ArtQuilts no fear’ exhibit at he page-Walker Art Center in Cary, NC. YAY!
Woo hoo! Ok, back to the studio!
doodles
March 10th, 2010 at 4:03 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
Some days you just need to sit and look out the window while you have a cup of your favorite tea.
Some days life starts out like a race, a good thing, lots of energy and purpose.
Other days are for reflecting and remembering.
I will take my tea and watch the birds, and enjoy the calm.
Doodles, 
thinking about my little “Penny” as she crossed the Rainbow bridge last night
February 25th, 2010 at 4:28 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
I read a book last week which has stayed on my mind, my thoughts keep returning to the different parts of the story. That must be the success of a really good book. The book is by Geraldine Brooks, The People Of The Book. The lengths certain people of power and means will go to in order to possess a valuable book from a distant past. Now I want to hide away in my studio and make an illuminated book of my own. More than a daily journal, but a book of thoughts, insights, memories, and advice to leave for my children. ONE book…they must share…..so this book needs to be …beyond anything I have ever designed and made.
Wish me luck!
doodles

February 15th, 2010 at 6:31 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
We do not usually have snow this far south. On Thursday we woke up to SNOW!
Very inspirational for some new art projects,
doodles
February 14th, 2010 at 3:51 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
Quilting Arts Magazine has uploaded pictures of the entries which were not chosen for publication in the magazine for the challenge: “Inner Animal”. Take a visit and see all the talent and whimsy of these art quilts. Also, I am pleased to know my entry was posted to SewCalGal blog! Enjoy the small online exhibit: “Quilting Arts”
doodles
February 5th, 2010 at 2:27 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
Quilting Arts “Let Out Your Inner Animal” contest – A Fun Challenge!
It was fun to participate in the creation of my inner animal. Who Knew I had an “inner Animal”?
I thought about this a lot…maybe too much
But knew what my inner animal was without a doubt!
I had a picture of some bobcats and then I merged the bobcat face with a picture of my face.
My imaging software helped me to morph the images, than a bit of tweaking, and WOW!
No, my Inner Animal was not chosen as a finalist, but that is ok.
I knew I had gotten the challenge right when my sister saw the quilt and said, “That reminds me of you”! Success!

Doodles' Inner Animal
Enjoy!
“Let your inner animal out of its cage by participating in our latest reader challenge!
We will show some of our favorite entries in future issues of Quilting Arts Magazine”
January 17th, 2010 at 5:23 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
$$ Is It All About The Money ??? $$
Oh No! Not for me. (I would be in trouble if it were, *grin*)
I have had the awesome thrill of selling pieces of quilted art. When one of my original designs is appreciated and sold to someone I do not even know, I am really excited! I like $$$$….but for me, it is not the “WHY” of making quilted art.
I understand the need of an appraisal to establish the value of an item of work. That is a smart decision! But it really rankles me when a family member or friend looks at a piece I am especially proud of and asks, ” How much are you going to sell it for”? “What is it worth”?
There are days when I can hardly wait to escape to my small studio and turn on the different machines, plug in the iron, clip the MP3 player to my shirt, fondle the cones of thread, and then let my imagination go free. These times are not as often now as in the past, so the time I have now is even more of a treasure.
I can not imagine making the art pieces exclusively for financial gain. That would change the emotional feel of the piece for me. I have made commissioned pieces, but even then, I put lots of thought, energy, and even sing prayerful phrases as I work on the piece for a particular theme or person. If someone sees the piece, feels a connection or likes it enough to pay the price I ask, then so much the better!
SO, for me….. it is not all about the money……but it is all about the heart and soul being stitched into a very special piece of art. Not every piece I make is extraordinary. I have made many inspirational pieces which were for the expression of a time or experience. Once the therapeutic effect has been achieved, I can put the piece aside and move on to a different project.
OK, little rant is over.
Enjoy what you make, grow in the process, and feel at peace.
doodles
But I do have a little rant today…..works which are made from the inner soul of an artist. Why is the appreciation of the art piece only of value, if it has broad appeal for a commercial market?
December 8th, 2009 at 3:31 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:
-

-
Summer's last Gift for me
The last Dahlia bloom from my garden was carefully clipped last week. She is BEAUTIFUL !
Of course her face will appear in an art quilt soon.
Enjoy,
doodles
November 20th, 2009 at 3:34 am
Posted By: DianeDoodles
Posted in:

A wonderful morning for walking through the woods, to the pond, and watching the falling leaves. God’s Art in motion!