New Works! The Sojourners Series Begins

I began a new series of paintings that I am really excited about, and since my husband is completely useless to me in reflecting an honest reaction to my art ("That's nice." - worst description of how you feel about an artwork ever!) and my sister (who is always the most blunt and honest with me about my work) is currently overseas for the next 4 months, I wanted to share them with you and see what you thought.

"Sisterhood"

2011 by Harmony

Original Mixed Media Painting

8X8 done on wood panel

I created this (above) painting on commission for a lovely pair of sisters to celebrate their journey both separate and together.  It really inspired me to think about each of us and our individual journeys that almost always have at least one "other" that makes us brave and gives us strength to be our unique selves.  My little sister does this for me.  We are almost exact opposites in personality and style, this led to lots of competitive behaviors and fighting when we were young, but as I have grown alongside her, I have discovered it is the beauty of our differences that I love the most, and that she helps me be who I am today.  So I was inspired to create a few more pieces of each sister on their individual journey, to reflect the duality of their spirits (connected together yet living separate lives). 

 "The Dreamer"

2011 by Harmony Lenasbunt

Mixed Media Original Artwork

6X6 done on wood panel

 "The Seeker"

2011 by Harmony Lenasbunt

Mixed Media Original Artwork

6X6 done on wood panel

More about how I made them: Each piece is totally unique, full of texture and  layers, as well as color and patterns.  I used vintage wrapping papers to create a base layer which I kept overlaying with paint, pastel, inks, adding more and wiping away over and over until the background was built up with as much character and beauty as the figure herself.  There are vintage lace pieces affixed to the edges, and the images are actually done on fabric, giving them a soft dreamy appearance. 

I am absolutely over the moon with how my vision for these paintings turned out in reality and am currently working on several more pieces for the series of Sojourners.  Thank you for letting me share them with you.  They are very dear to my heart.  Prints and wood mounted prints of them will be available in my Etsy Shop later today.  If you are interested in the orginals, or a commissioned work like this, please email me.

If you were represented in an artwork like this, what would your title be?  I am definitely the Dreamer, while my sister is completely the Seeker.  Any Wanderers, Pranksters, Mother Hearts,  Thinkers out there?  Tell me what word describes your current journey best?

XO, HARMONY

the magic of sisterhood

"Sisters Are Magical" Digital Artwork done by Harmony Lenasbunt 2010

I have a little sister, well 3 years younger, we are actually pretty much the same size ;)  She and I have a very special connection.  I have a feeling all sisters have something similar going on between them regardless of age difference and closeness of their relationship.  There is something about that other girl in the family that creates a bond like none other.  She and I can fight like you wouldn't believe, and we have very little in common, but still I could not imagine my life without her.  I wouldn't be who and where I am now without her support, love, and yes even that competitive influence that sisters also seem to have with each other.  So when I was approached with the opportunity to create a custom work on the theme of sisterhood for a very special sister birthday, I couldn't refuse.  No matter how infuriating my baby sister can be, she is also my greatest ally and my dearest friend.  That conflict within our relationship rooted in such deep love for each other, intrigues me to capture in art.  So I thought I'd take a few moments this morning and look at ways other artists have presented sisterhood in their artworks.  Here are a few that truly inspired me, and maybe they will connect for you as well.

Found HERE

Found HERE

Found HERE

Found HERE

Found HERE

Found HERE

Found HERE

What does sisterhood look and feel like to you?  What does it mean for where you are today? I'd love to hear your comments on this.  Whether they are bonded to us by blood or some other worldly connection, sisterhood is something truly magical.

XO, HARMONY

paper products and sisterhood

The other day, I sold this Journal at my Etsy Shop. (this is always a really exciting and rewarding moment for me).   The purchase came with a note, "I LOVE this journal. Hoping to have it for a special Girls Night party I'm hosting. Beautiful work - thank you" 

I was intrigued.   I messaged her back ensuring that I could get it to her in time for the gathering and asked if she could tell me more about what it was being used for.  To which she replied, " Two girlfriends and I have been meeting once a month for dinner and drinks for over ten years now. The rule is everyone brings a drink and a homemade appetizer or dessert that you've never tried/made before. A few months into it we bought a journal to capture all the recipes, and subsequently our current life situation at that time. It's the coolest book ever, but we're coming to the end and need to start a new one. I've been on the hunt for MONTHS but your perfectly fits our personalities and the creation that it becomes. Thanks for the beautiful pieces - can't wait to see it in person!"

I was floored.  What an amazing gift she gave me!   To have one of my books chosen so carefully and specifically for what is obviously a very sacred and special ritual for these lovely group of friends, was beyond flattering.  It was so wonderful to be able to have a small part in the beauty that these women have created with each other.  This was really really special.  I felt validated for creating these books and putting so much time into them.  As I packaged it up and got it ready for its journey, the book instantly felt different to me.  I thought about the hands of each of these friends holding the book, spending time in it entering their new recipes, decorating the pages, and sharing life stories.  There would be times of joy, laughter, tears, and trials, and they would be walking through it all together.

(Painting by an incredible artist and new friend, Mindy Lacefield of Tim's Sally)

 It makes me yearn for such a sisterhood.  One that would last for a decade and beyond like theirs does.  What a beautiful way to travel through life!  I have been receiving a lot of such encouragement lately, (especially since I have just moved) to reach out and start gathering women in my life that give me strength and love, and create more opportunities to connect and build sacred space and authentic relationship between us.

This has also led me to reflect on the women that have helped me through and been my family circle when I needed it most.  This past year I had A LOT of crazy transition and stress (will share more about that at a later time), and these 3 beautiful women helped me through.  (You know who you are) :)  Thank you my wonderful friends!  I wouldnt be here doing this, following my dream, without you all.  I will miss having you with me.  NANANA!! I adore you!!

 (Photo by Brooke Collier of Brook Collier Photography)

If you have a group like that in your life.  Tell me about it.  Share how you came together, and how you connect in sisterhood.  Now take a moment and CELEBRATE the beautiful women in your life.