Is Art A Luxury?

A question posted by Scoutie Girl here:

http://www.scoutiegirl.com/2010/04/we-scout-wednesday-is-art-a-luxury.html

that made me ponder the definition of "art" and weather all things that fall into the category of art (as I define it) should be considered a luxury.

Let's start with the definition of ART! To me Art doesn't have to be something tangible like the scrap of paper that my toddler hands me with her lovely scribbles, though I do consider her carefully made pictures "abstract" art! Art can be an idea, words, or something with physical mass like a painting or sculpture. To me, art can be a carefully considered compliment given to someone who truly deserves it. Art can evoke a spectrum of emotions, and is a part of our lives every day in so many forms.

So, do I think that Art is a luxury? Yes, I do! But, it is a luxury that can be afforded by many... all you have to do is look around, appreciate the beauty in nature, in your realationships, and in the creativity of your friends or self! You may find that you are blessed with a lion's share of Art in it's purest forms :)

A "Sprinkle" of Inspiration

I love to trade, collaborate, cross-promote, or just be inspired by fellow artists and artisans. A recent trade with a wonderful etsian "SweetSillySprinkles" inspired this hairbow display that would be perfect for a children's boutique, or hanging in your favorite little girl's room! Please note that while the clippie display is a "BittyBenny" original, the adorable & creative hair clippies are handmade by Emily at www.SweetSillySprinkles.etsy.com

Thoughts From The Workshop

This lovely pair will be on it's way to a new home tomorrow. I love made-to-order and custom order sales, they are extra special because while I am carefully cutting, stitching, and ironing I can't help but think of the new owner and where they might take my latest work of art. And then I often wonder if my customers {or anyone who buys handmade goods} knows how special they are for supporting an artist?

Monsterbites365 Feature!

Don't forget to leave a comment for Kimmy & Ash at MonsterBites365 http://monsterbites365.com/2010/04/16/b-b-b-benny-and-the-stash and tell them what song gets you on the dance floor! Submit your comment by April 23rd for a chance to win the "Green Eyed Medallion" eco-friendly coin purse!

Gearing Up For Giveaways

Stay tuned and spread the word: Giveaways and Spring Promotions are coming soon!

When we get 25 followers here at the Handmade Gifts & Goods blog, there will be a Giveaway to celebrate!

And our first Spring Promotion is part of the Benny & Stash feature on MonsterBites365, Friday, April 16th. MonsterBites readers will find out how to get a gift with any soft goods purchase! MonsterBites features handmade & enviromentally friendly items, join today at http://monsterbites365.com/

! UPDATE !

MonsterBites will be giving away the coin purse shown above. It is made from previously loved jeans, a repurposed zipper, and is trimmed/lined with "Green Eyed Medallion" cotton fabric. This case is the perfect size to clip onto your keychain when you just want to carry a couple of small essentials.

Do you miss the good old days when tight rolled jeans were all the rage, your hair just couldn't be big enough, and dressing like Madonna or Cyndi Lauper was not just for Halloween? If your answer is yes then you are going to LOVE this sneak peek at the new B&S fabric cuff bracelets!!!