Inspirations

Surf, Sand, Palm Trees and Exotic Florals of Hawaii! I Love Tropical Art.

From my recent trip to Hawaii, I came across a few art galleries in the historical Haleiwa Town of North Shore (Oahu, Hawaii). Many of the local arts were very colorful and representative of all the beauty that the island has to offer. Many of the artwork showcases the natural beauty surrounding the landscape--for instance the tropical flora/fauna, the exotic foods and the overall laid-back lifestyle of the locals. They live off the land and that is all that is needed. The wind, the surf, the sand...the many beaches align the coasts of the island make this place an ideal place to be inspired again.

The type of local art that catches my eye the most are the ones with bright colors and showcases strong contrast with black outlines. I came by Jamie Swim Art in the Waialua Bakery in North Shore and instantly loved the style. It was simple yet very punchy. Totally representative of the vibrant life and colors of the island.

Jamie Swim Art 

Another artist that is similar in style is also works from Jordan Dodson. His style is very representative of the bright and tropical life here on the island.

Jordan Dodson

Another favorite that I bought a print from was from the late, Rosalie Prussey. Her works are full of life. They appear whimsical and colorful. My favorites from her are the detailed paintings of towns where she has secretly placed a bird in each painting for you to find.

Rosalie Prussey

Truly inspired~ From the entire trip, I felt as if I was dreaming because everything was so vibrant and refreshing from what I usually see everyday back in Toronto. Living in such paradise is truly a blessing and for these artists, they conveyed the beauty of the island very creatively through their art.

Tree Artist Andrea Currie aka Pomonalife.com

I came across a very inspirational artist during my trip to Tobermory Oct.3-6, 2013. Her works are very intricate and are drawings of trees. Andrea uses ink on paper which is simple and this keeps her work medium very genuine and intricate.

As soon as I stepped into the 'Wet Rocks' gallery, her artworks drew me in first. The details and techniques used are very intricate and showcases a story behind each carefully drawn tree. I took the time to scan closely and carefully observe each stroke. Her works are mesmerizing and leaves me to think about what each tree can represent to any viewer.  Trees symbolizes many things from other cultures like wealth, health, and most importantly, LIFE. We all find ways to grow as a person and when I look at her works, I can sorta feel what each drawing is trying to convey (each inking has a label and quote to go along). 

Treasure - Purchased by me :)

Her work in progress on her blog site

Please view her stunning artwork here at www.pomonalife.com.
Very inspiring in every way. I hope to sell my artwork some day too :)

Ladies Learning Code

I came across an accessible and awesome group to keep up with development in design and technology. They offer cheap classes that will help designers/developers grow in the industry. The training and mentors are suppose to be of great help and guidance. You can either sign up and pay to be part of a class or volunteer to be a teacher/mentor.

Classes range for about $60.00. Their site at Ladies Learning Code, will connect you with weekly up-to-date training to particular skills training that you may be interested in. 

It's not just a place for females to grow in the tech industry, males can also join classes too. It seems like a great place/atmosphere to immerse yourself with like-minded individuals who are new (or highly experienced) in development/design area.
I'll pop in some time and go for their HTML/CSS class. After all, it's just code right? It can't be that intimidating. :)

Ladies Learning Code in Toronto

The Butterfly Conservatory

I checked out a butterfly conservatory for the first time in my life. It was the most wonderful and uplifting experience. Once I stepped in the tropical lush garden at the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory, it was as if I stepped into another world. The landscaping was just perfect for any butterfly to live in. I was in awe as soon as I spotted a few butterflies fluttering about the trees. These butterflies are no ordinary ones that you would come across in our parks; they come from all parts of the world. The size and colors were amazing and could not compare to seeing pictures in books or magazines. It was as if they were magical as they flapped their wings along the lush gardens. The patterns in which they fly are not ordinary from any other insect. Some butterflies were basking on leaves or branches, while some were eating nectar from the food stations set up for them. A few of them appear dancing in the air as they pair up and play with a mate. It's just absolutely amazing to see a whole bunch of them in one space. This is definitely an experience that everyone should observe. It makes me appreciate how intricate and beautiful bugs can be. As I childhood, I loved bugs and would learn and catch them to satisfy my young curiosities about the natural world. Butterflies are just one of the many wonderful species of bugs that I learned to appreciate more after seeing them hatch from their cocoons.

Purty butterfly chilling on my shirt