But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. (Titus 3:4-7, ESV) (Listen)
My artsy friend, Heather W. had this great idea to alter matchboxes for a swap. My daughter, Jessica joined us and I’m thrilled with the results and had to share with you all. The only requirements of the swap were to alter an empty matchbox, create one non-sliding opening, add a Bible verse, and use elements that the recipients would love. I hope this inspiring gallery sparks your imagination and sets you on fire to alter a matchbox, too!
I just had to share a treasured work of art I unexpectedly received in the mail from my friend, Viola of Germany. This stunning piece was wrapped in textural and inspirational treats like, handmade lace, embroidered ribbons, antique Tango music sheets and German book pages! It’s created on a hard book cover and is an experience to touch. The laces and trims are colored with paint, there are layers of words, labels, stamps and metal embellishments, and it’s all creatively layered with fragrant beeswax. An mixed-media artist’s yummy delight to feel and gaze upon. I’m honored to be given this exquisite present.
What a wonderfully fun art party we’re having!! So many friends have been by with fabulous artwork, big hugs, delicious eye candy, and presents to open! Every work of art by other artists are treasured gifts! Each one is special, and made with love by talented friends. Thank you, with my whole heart to you all!
Art Gifts
Art as swaps, trades and treasured gifts from the most wonderful and talented artists in my life! Thank you for your blessings! ~ Laura
I’m fortunate to have my wonderful in-laws live with us. My mother-in-law is a very special person. It’s not unusual to hear her singing hymns or laughing out loud in the other room. She’s the best nurse, a really fun grandma, a special friend, a great wife, and an excellent mother. Her heart is big, and especially soft for young mothers, children and babies. She’s nurtured and taught hundreds through classes she teaches and raised dozens of foster children. She’s wife of a retired Naval Lt. Commander who’s beautiful style of mothering has created two sons that have grown up to be exceptional men, fathers and husbands. I’ve been blessed beyond measure to have married one, and to be a member of this family!
She loves flowers, gardens and Victorian novels so I created a card for her with these things in mind. I chose old world looking stamps, Layers of Color Fleur Heart and Architectural Blocks. One of her favorite colors is purple, so I washed the background with purple watercolor then embossed it entirely with old gold. The heart is stamped then embossed with a stylus, rubbed with ink and chalk, and cut out with decorative scissors. I molded it slightly with my fingers into 3-D and stitched it to the background then filled it with purple and white flowers. I know she’ll see and appreciate the love I’ve expressed towards her in this card.
Matchbox for Jessica - by Laura
Right side view
Left side and front view
Inside matchbox
Matchbox for Laura - by Heather
Inside matchbox
Matchbox for Heather - by Jessica
Inside Matchbox
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