.The Blog.

A Penelope In My Pocket Christmas Party

2010-12-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

You are invited...

Penelope In My Pocket is having a Christmas Party!

Saturday December 18, 2010 2-4 pm at

Penelope’s Workshop

15960 Santa Fe Trail Leavenworth, KS 66048

All guests attending will automatically be entered in a drawing to win this original watercolor painting titled: "Matthew 25"
This painting is presented in a beautiful 8x10" frame.

You are invited to come do some last minute shopping in the artist's studio (my kitchen/living room, that is) before the Big Day. (Meaning Christmas Day!)
Enjoy some lovely refreshments with some equally lovely company. Yeah, I am talking about ladies who love art and love pretty things made from art! (Of course, guys can come too.)

Tons of goodies... bookmarks, coffee mugs, earrings, bracelets, rings, necklaces in all sizes and shapes, hair clips, ornaments, paper flowers, original paintings and much more!!! All starting as low as $2! And all made from whimsical and colorful artwork!

I really hesitate to try to market myself to my friends... I mean, I don't want to come across like I am using my friendships to sell stuff.
Can I share a few secrets with you?
I don't know what the future holds but in the next few years I hope to enlarge my art business to be able to fully support my family. Right now, I am only able to bring in part of what we need to supplement my income. I am not sure what God wants me to do but I know it will have to do with art. That is why I am exploring all the different ways I am able to market this thing that I do. I want to be faithful to what He has given me to do. It is an exciting journey and I invite you to join me!
Anyway, we will see how it goes!

Another thing that I am passionate about is the biblical call to put into action what we believe. That being to feed the hungry, welcome the stranger, visit the sick, stand up for justice, care for the widow & orphan, and be a voice for those with no voice. My church has really caught this vision.

As Christ-Followers there is no way we can represent Jesus if these things aren't what moves us. I know I can't do much by myself. But I can do what I can to be a part of something bigger than myself! Last week at church there was this awesome speech by our missions pastor about what Westside Family Church is doing to fulfill these needs. I need to get re-fired up every once in a while. This was exactly the pep talk I needed to be reminded of what I can personally do to ease the suffering of people in the world.

Our pastor showed a picture of a baby with full blown AIDS. She didn't even look human. More like a baby animal. My heart broke! The baby could have been saved with a $5 dose of medicine. But $5 was a month's wages for the baby's mother. The baby died. All I could think about was how that little life mattered. And how that child deserved someone to notice the color of her eyes, the way she lit up when she did her favorite thing, someone to see her worth in the world. The same way I cherish the special things about my kids. But somehow, there are baby's thrown away in the world like they are not as important as even an animal. I am not saying this particular baby was not loved, but I know it is true that many children are not. There are so many more heartbreaking things I could tell you. The fact that humans in America are being sold into slavery. Mainly, children. Sexual Slavery. And it is not on the west and east coast. Kansas City is the hub for sex trafficking in the U.S. I can't even believe or imagine the horrors that are going on behind closed doors in our city. These hurting children need a voice. Well, I am so relieved to say that there are people joining together to stop these tragedies. My church Westside Family (based in Lenexa, KS) is launching an initiative to share God's love with those in need. It is called Impact 2011. I plan to raise all the support I can to give to this organized response toward solutions for suffering. The giving supports these specific causes: justice, orphan care, spiritual restoration, education, poverty, and health.

You are probably wondering what all this has to do with Penelope In My Pocket's Christmas Party! It has a lot to do with it, because 20% of every purchase will be going to this Impact 2011 program.

Many people wonder how God can sit back and let suffering go on in the world. Why doesn't he DO SOMETHING about it? Well, have you ever thought that maybe WE are His answer? He is using His body of Christ-Followers to be a solution.

"For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me." - Matthew 25

So if you like art and you also have a passion to help the hurting: here is a fun thing you can do!

Come to Penelope's Christmas Party on Saturday December 18, 2010 at 2 pm!

Recent Wall Murals

2010-11-08T18:59:00.000-08:00

I thought I would share a few recent wall murals I have done.

This first one of the tree is in a nutrition shake shop in

downtown Leavenworth, KS...

The next mural is on a wall in a loft, also in downtown Leavenworth.

It is really fun getting to stretch my creativity and do some things other than kids room walls. I love to do colorful whimsical but I am discovering I like new challenges too!

I think I am finding my niche!

2010-10-27T14:33:00.000-07:00

This is a collection of five paintings inspired by

Song of Solomon chapter 2

~ acrylic paintings on canvas ~

The Season

^{(featured above)}

^{Song of Solomon 2:13}

The fig trees are producing their early fruit.

The flowers on the vines are giving off their sweet smell.

Rise up and come, my love.

Come with me, my beautiful one.

size: 24 x 36"

$225

Singing

^{(featured above)}

^{Song of Solomon 2:11 & 12}

Look! The winter is past.
The rains are over and gone.
Flowers are appearing on the earth.
The season for singing has come.

size: 17 x 23"

$200

Hiding Place

^{(featured above)}

^{Song of Solomon 2:14}

The king says,
'You are like a dove in an opening in the rocks.
You are like a dove in a hiding place on a mountainside.'

size: 16 x 20"

$150

Little Fox

^{(featured above)}

^{Song of Solomon 2:15}

Let me hear your voice.

Your voice is so sweet.

Your face is so lovely.

Catch the foxes for us.

Catch the little foxes.

They destroy our vineyard,

The vineyards are in bloom.

size: 11 x 14"

$50

Threads

^{(featured above)}

^{Song of Solomon 2:4}

Your banner of love is lifted high above me.

size: 9 x 12"

$25

If you are interested in purchasing these original works of art,

feel free to contact me.

Curls, Spurls, Solar Systems, and Inspiration

2010-10-01T19:23:00.000-07:00

Curly Cues sure are popular. You see them everywhere. I just now looked around to notice all the things around me that have them. On my dresser is an earring rack in the shape of a tree with curlies for branches. Next to it, a candle holder with sprawling arms holding perfect votive perches. Underwear print, lotion container, imprint on soap. But even more personal is these curls and spurls are happening in my sketch book, on my wall, and now officially in my logo design. They are just so fun to make. I find myself automatically twirling the tip of my pen around letters every time I hold a writing instrument between my fingers. I could do it for hours. I think if I was born in Baltimore and somehow stumbled upon the opportunity to apply my skill to Charm City Cakes, I would pipe icing. Anyway, if there is anything in this design that is me -is it the joy I get out of the pure entertainment of creating it. And normally that is not the case. Normally, I am an impatient artist. I want to hurry up and get the sketch done so I can get to the color and then the outline and I just want to be done so I can see it already!

.... BUT not with curls.
I created the logo for a client who sent me these photos as inspiration. Not only did she send me photos to look at but she was full of explanation of the vision she wanted:

Key words to include somewhere: "redemption" & "miracles happen". A foundational verse: "And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it" (John 1:5). The themes of light breaking through darkness and overcoming it, the war and how God always wins, and God's passionate, relentless, unyielding, unmatched and never ending love for mankind in spite of their sin, and His power to pull them out of it if their hearts are willing. Included in those themes, are the characteristics of God that I love to focus on, including His power to heal, save, deliver, and do creative miracles. I like seeing the contrast of light and darkness and watching light shatter the darkness - deliverance, really. A Logo that looks like healing, miracles, and revival. Ezekiel 47 is my key Biblical chapter that I want the logo to look like. There is fish in the water - stands for salvation of the lost, and wherever the river flows, it brings life and healing - miracles, raising the dead, etc.

I wish I could tell you more about the ministry I am creating the logo for but I am not sure if the client will choose it yet. I would love to get some feedback. The logo was made from a 6x8" acrylic painting that I did. It was computer enhanced a small bit. But for the most part this is hand done. I enjoy the challenge of trying to catch someone else's vision, capture their imagination and make it come to life. Sometimes I am successful and other times people just try to be polite. Either way, I can take it as long as it is couched in love.

I love to try new ideas, I do it all the time. I know this style of art is not the norm for me. Usually I like more simple things. But I do love to illustrate and that is definitely the direction I have going here. I thrive upon detail and personal customized touches. In the recent past my art has leaned toward the abstract; sloppy, but always seemingly intentional. I can't really ever be haphazard with my art. I wish I could because I tend to overwork certain aspects of things instead of let them appear effortless.

I don't know if my Friday-night-at-10:30 pm-ramblings are going to be interesting to anyone, but I don't always share what is going on behind the thought process of how I create. So hopefully someone will be getting a bit of entertainment out of it!

And for that person, I now conclude. Thanks for listening! Tune in for more next time!

Heaven is the Face

2010-08-21T16:55:00.000-07:00

16x20" Acrylic on Canvas

One of my childhood friends wrote me when she was 24 weeks pregnant with her little girl. (At the time of this posting she is very close to her due date and will be delivering in a couple of weeks!) She told me about how last year in February she had lost her son at 20 weeks of pregnancy. Her husband had taken the loss of the baby boy particularly hard. My friend told me how her husband heard the song 'Heaven is the Face' by Steven Curtis Chapman and it touched him deeply. If you have never heard the song just turn the radio on to K-Love (97.3 FM in KC) and you will eventually hear it. She asked me to paint a picture featuring the lyrics for her husband in memory of their little boy and in honor of their new baby girl. A beautiful combination, if you ask me. Here is the song in it's fullness:

Steven Curtis Chapman's "Heaven is the Face"

Heaven is the Face

Heaven is the face of a little girl

With dark brown eyes

That disappear when she smiles

Heaven is the place

Where she calls my name

Says, "Daddy please come play with me for awhile"

God, I know, it's all of this and so much more

But God, You know, that this is what I'm aching for

God, you know, I just can't see beyond the door

So right now

Heaven is the sound of her breathing deep

Lying on my chest, falling fast asleep while I sing

And Heaven is the weight of her in my arms

Being there to keep her safe from harm while she dreams

(If you did not know the songwriter lost his daughter in an accident.) Needless to say, the whole time I painted I was on the verge of tears! For some reason, I have ended up doing several custom art projects for similar occasions. For instance, my last painting was a watercolor illustration as a gift for a little blond-haired, blue-eyed baby girl who was undergoing chemotherapy and last summer I painted a memorial for a little boy who drowned at the age of 2. I don't know why I have been chosen for these things, but I see it as an opportunity to bring healing in a special way through something beautiful. Anyway, back to the present...

My friend also asked me to include a tree in the background. She said when they were ready to let go, they planned to place their sweet son's ashes with a tree so that he is forever growing. The tree became significant to her because her husband gave her a silver ring with a whimsical tree on it.

She mailed me the ring and a fabric sample matching her new baby's nursery and I got to work. At the time I had a waiting list of about 5 projects to do. One of them was for another baby of a friend in which the request was to include a stuffed lamb. Many times I work simultaneously on several projects. I started on the lamb painting first. After I finished the lamb I looked over my order forms to see which project I would start next while it dried. Immediately, I saw the fabric sample and tree from the first project and I was amazed at the color tones: the lamb painting matched the fabric perfectly. I switched projects. The lamb was an 'accident', not meant to be featured in the first friend's painting. But I added the tree, the lyrics and even used the print of the fabric sample as the pattern in the green hills. It turned out to be a really thoughtful and special piece for me to create. The brown eyes in the lamb were childlike and full of peace... and heaven is a place with no more tears - only complete healing and fulness of Life!

This is the letter I received after I mailed it:

It arrived today!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! OH MY GRAVY!!!!!! Beth, I couldn't wait to give it to him so I ran out and got a frame this afternoon and I just got done showing it to him.

He is a tough guy and this knocked him off his feet! Overwhelmed with emotion doesn't even begin to describe his reaction. I didn't have to explain anything (he recognized the tree right away!) and the lamb in the picture is even more touching than you could have realized....he carried a tiny lamb around when he was a little guy and it now sits on a shelf in our baby girl's room!!!! Unbelievable!! (And LOTS of tears!)

I wish I knew how to thank you properly!!! I'm so humbled by your talent!!!!! When we get it hanging, I'll take a picture so you can see how well it fits! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!!!

Signed,

ALicia

A special thanks to Alicia for letting me work on this project for you. Your grace has touched me. You are a sensitive and thoughtful wife. AS I am sure your husband Brian would agree! I am honored to have been able to dedicate this painting to your little Liam. May God bless your family and give you many opportunities to share your story for continued healing and restoration.

Live Painting # 2 at WFC

2010-08-11T19:24:00.000-07:00

It has been a couple of weeks since I finished my second live painting at Westside Church. It was July 25, 2010. All proceeds from the auction (I did not get a grand total but I am guessing around $2000) went to an inner city mission organization in KCK.

I didn't get many pictures of this one but the ones I did get were of the paintings I did back stage - something that I overlooked last time. I painted these paintings all in a row: 1 hour for each of them. I chose to do different colors because I really don't enjoy doing something so repetitive as painting the exact same thing all day long.

I searched long and hard for an image I felt would match the topic of Jesus the Teacher. I chose this photo to work from because I wanted to represent the relationship between Jesus and His closest disciples Peter, James and John - who were fishermen by trade.

Matthew 4:18-20 (New International Version)

The Calling of the First Disciples

¹⁸As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. ¹⁹"Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." ²⁰At once they left their nets and followed him.

A lot of preparation went in to doing this. It may look simple but the practice was a full time job! A lot of sketching, trial and error... I am just glad to have accomplished it for the second time in the same month. Pretty much my entire summer went to getting ready for these projects.

I had a lot of hours poured in to planning how to start this 3'x4' creation from a blank canvas. I decided to start out painting the background for the first 30 minutes and then I switched it out with a pre-painted background so that I could work with a dry surface. Then I used the rest of the next half hour filling in the silhouettes and details. I repeated this process using the painted background I had finished in the previous service for the rest of the day.

The result was an image that is very relaxing to look at. I like to imagine that Jesus jumped right in to life with these guys and offered a helping hand. Even after they were called to follow Him the Bible tells of times where they experienced Jesus' miracles on the water... walking on the water, casting their nets and getting so many fish they didn't know what to do, campfires on the beach... I think that the real learning goes on when you experience life with someone who is teaching you through practical ways. I hope to share what I do with others so that the time I spend with people makes an impact for eternity and not only for a fleeting moment.

Jesus set the best example of that when he took these men who the world thought to be mediocre blue collar workers and used them to change the world!

That reminds me of an awesome quote from a song by Matt Maher:

"I met a man who walked on water, who wore his crown like a blue collar..."

3'x4' Acrylic on Canvas

Jesus and the Fishers of Men

$300

If you are interested in owning this piece of hand-painted art, please contact me

(either through the contact tab at the top of the page or Facebook).

I have one painting left to sell!

Live Painting at Westside Family Church

2010-07-05T08:26:00.000-07:00

I have been preparing for this moment for about 2 months. I put all of my custom art projects on hold and focused on this day July 4, 2010. Four 3'x4' paintings in one day, 1 hour to finish each of them! This live painting was done for the worship services at Westside Family Church in Lenexa, Kansas - located at Highway 7 and 83rd St. It also happens to be the church I attend, although I go to the Speedway Westside Campus located in the Legends Theaters on Parallel Parkway.

Westside is having a month long series entitled "The Jesus Exhibition" in which I will be painting live the first and last Sundays and another artist will be painting the other two. The series is focused on the gospel of John in which the personal aspects of Jesus will be highlighted. This is the first time I actually attended a service at the Lenexa location - and I painted live on stage during the music and the pastor's sermon!

As I woke up in the morning I realized that in my excitement (and anxiety) that I forgot to remove my disposable contacts and I slept in them all night! As I peeled them out of my eyes at 5:30 a.m. all I could think was: "Why did I volunteer for this? Why did I willingly sign up for this?!" It was as if I just boarded a roller coaster and as it was pulling toward the tallest point I wished I could be anywhere else but in the position I was in! After a healthy breakfast of Kashi cereal, it took me about 45 minutes to get to Westside Church. During the car trip I drank 1 bottle of water, a cup of coffee, and half a bottle of green goodness in attempt to fill myself with energy... later I would kind of regret supplying myself with so much fluid. Once I got there I was greeted by the church staff getting the stage ready for the worship set. I checked to see that my station was still as I left it a few days earlier when I came to practice painting for the last time. My best time that day was 1 hour and 40 minutes. That fact was not a comforting thought to me. Instead, I worried that I would not even finish in the 60 minutes or less I was expected to.

As I stood on stage watching the band get ready to rehearse their songs Maria Morris walked out and beckoned me to the green room behind the stage. Maria is the artist scheduled to paint for the next two weeks during the services at Westside. The dates are July 11 & July 18. She is an amazing watercolor artist but she will be painting acrylic on canvas. I got to know her through the process of preparing because she shopped for all the supplies. She also was kind enough to provide her wisdom in art as well as help me learn some new skills. The prep process was interesting because we ran into such problems as the paint not drying within the time constraints. It is a challenge to produce a quality piece of art that you would be proud to sign your name to at all in only an hour!

Maria prayed with me. Her words reminded me that my nervousness really didn't matter because I was doing it for my Lord. This was a personal form of worship just as the musicians were performing on stage. I really clung to the fact that if I was consumed with nerves it would be because my focus was on myself and my own abilities. This was a gift from the Lord that I was privileged and humbled to give back to him.

Soon after I took one last restroom break I headed onto stage, that is right after I texted everyone in my phone: "Going onstage!" My hands were trembling. I started painting with my back to the audience. Some time went by and the first song was over. I realized I failed to start my timer. I had no idea how long I had left. Normally I can gauge these things but all sense of time was lost. So I kept on painting. The song choices were perfect. Instead of lifting my hands, as I normally would during music, it was as if each brush stroke was a demonstration of love for Who I was singing to and Who it was that I was painting! I had the boy finished at the end of the worship music: about 2/3 of the painting was left to be done. I didn't know if I could get it finished! As I painted the bread in the basket I heard Pastor Dan talk about how the boy's lunch was only about the size of a Chick-fil-A take out meal, not bad on the timing! Then as he talked about how he had personally prayed to see other people the way the Lord sees them, through the eyes of Jesus I finished painting Jesus' face and eyes. It was if we had practiced this way! As Pastor Dan encouraged all of us to feed someone's stomach so that they can hear God's word I signed my name and stood to the side. Something he said really stuck with me: According to statistics 2 Billion of the world's 6 Billion population is suffering from hunger and starvation. Also, studies reveal that 2 Billion people claim Christianity as their faith. This is not a coincidence. We are here to be the body of Christ to feed the hungry!

Each service, as I became more comfortable I prayed that God would not let me become over-confident and that he would take over for me, guiding my hand.

The paintings were sold in a silent auction at the end of each service. The money went to begin a soup kitchen to feed the hungry in South Africa. The bidding was only open for about 20 minutes after each service.

The first painting sold in 15 minutes for $1500! Second service $1200! Third $500 and fourth $400. I had prepared a 5th painting ahead of time for the Speedway location and that sold for $750. In addition I received a commissioned piece for $1000. The total money received was $5,350*!

I was so glad to take part in this innovative worship service. At the beginning of the day I was promising myself I would not do this again. But now... who knows what God can do?!

* Numbers are not yet official, there may have been more donated and less actually goes to the soup kitchen after art supply costs.

Dream and Laugh Wall Mural

2010-06-26T18:30:00.000-07:00

This wall Mural was painted for my

nephew Liam and my niece Olive

who share a bedroom.

Since it is a room for a boy and a girl

we wanted to choose something that would go with the colors of the bedding

but be unisex at the same time.

Painted with Acrylic Paint

If you are interested in having an original wall mural painted for your child (or for yourself) please feel free to contact me with your questions and ideas! I work with just about any budget.

Bottle Cap Creations

2010-05-31T11:28:00.000-07:00

My dear creative friend Tricia Schlessman taught me something new~

I really can't take credit for these cute little gems. Tricia asked everyone she knew to drink up and donate their bottle caps so that she could fill them with cute magazine clippings and some sort of art glue. I only benefitted when she shared her supplies and expertise with me! I cut up some of my business cards for Penelope In My Pocket, which had some of my original art printed on them and personalized my bottle caps.

Thanks, Little Mama, for sharing!

To buy the supplies and learn how to make these colorful treasures yourself visit Urban Arts and Crafts at Briar Cliff in Kansas City, Missouri.

Isaiah 58 - Original Painting 36"x48"

2010-05-28T14:30:00.000-07:00

Yep, I played marbles on the painting.

Above:

The full view of the painting

Acrylic Paint on Canvas 36x48"

This is one of two paintings commissioned by Jeremy Swenson of Snowmen Inc.

This painting gave me the chance to develop some typography skills.

Thanks, Jeremy for asking me to do this!

Proverbs 3:5-10

2010-05-28T11:12:00.000-07:00

Proverbs Chapter 3 Verses 5-10

Proverbs 3:5-10 (New King James Version)

⁵ Trust in the LORD with all your heart,
      And lean not on your own understanding;
       ⁶ In all your ways acknowledge Him,
      And He shall direct your paths.
       ⁷ Do not be wise in your own eyes;
      Fear the LORD and depart from evil.
       ⁸ It will be health to your flesh,
      And strength to your bones.
       ⁹ Honor the LORD with your possessions,
      And with the firstfruits of all your increase;
       ¹⁰ So your barns will be filled with plenty,
      And your vats will overflow with new wine.

Acrylic Paint on Canvas

30x40"

This is one of two paintings commissioned by Jeremy Swenson of Snowmen Inc.

I always enjoy doing art that has to do with scripture. The Lord is my source of inspiration. From Him flows creativity, color and life. Each word is budding with hope and its roots are reaching down to the life-source that is the soil nourished by Christ.

The paintings make their home in the Snowmen office in Grandview, Missouri.

Thanks to Jeremy, for your business!

Promise Land Farm Logo

2010-05-20T21:50:00.000-07:00

What a fun project!

This creation is for a wonderful creative home-schooling family. At their farm they sell all-natural goat's milk, honey and a few more purely delightful goodies. I think they are even venturing out to add handmade soap to the list of goodies you can get when you visit.

As soon as I have contact information for those of you in the Kansas City area who are looking for some fun this summer, I will be sure to let you know how you can get in touch with the family and get out to their farm!

In the meantime, I get to help create an image for this new little oasis in the country! This piece of art includes original illustration with watercolor mounted on a vintage quilt I had laying around in my daughter's room. Actually, I could be wrong, but I think my great grandmother made the quilt piece for my mom.

When I was asked to do this project, right away I thought of textures and colors that reminded me of playful outings to the countryside. My kids and I cherish our day trips to the local Red Barn Farm in Weston, Missouri where there are farm animals to pet and treats for all the senses. When visiting a farm I think of worn and weathered barn wood... faded pastels... and smiles all around!

I hope these images have collected some memories and awakened intrigue for everyone who views them!

Contact me if you like what you see.

I can design a one-of-a-kind logo and header for your website too!

(For more info go to my Order page!)

Life After Java Logo

2010-05-06T20:21:00.000-07:00

This logo was designed for writer Casey Pitts. She describes her blog like this:

I'm a stay at home mom who doesn't stay home much! I can be found volunteering at many organizations, teaching Bible study, sewing costumes for local theatres or writing on a variety of subjects. Regardless of what's on my schedule, I always start the day with a cup of coffee and my laptop.

I always enjoy the challenge of trying to take the few things I know and weave a visual connection between what it is that a client does and their personality.

I think we found a nice balance this time. What do you think, Casey?

To visit Casey's inspirational writings go to:

Life Happens After Java

Collection for 'First Fridays' in May 2010

2010-05-05T19:47:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the newest additions to the PenelopeInMyPocket portfolio!

I hope you enjoy browsing through these paintings.

* Scroll down to find out specific info on each painting.

The painting pictured above is 18"x 24"

- acrylic on canvas -

Title:

"The Third Touch"

The painting pictured above is 18"x 24"

- acrylic on canvas -

Title: "The one That Was Healed"

Isaiah 40:28-31

The painting pictured above is 15"x 30"

- acrylic on canvas -

Title: "It is Finished"

The painting pictured above is 8"x 24"

- acrylic on canvas -

Title: "From The Depths"

The painting pictured above is 18"x 24"

- acrylic on canvas -

Title: "Up With Wings"

Each of these pieces {in addition to the painting titled "Doves Lifting"} will be featured for sale at The First Fridays Crossroads Art District in Kansas City, MO on Friday May 7th.

Featured at:

~ Honeytree Gallery ~

... across the street from Grinder's in the Cross Road's district.

Check back in with penelopeinmypocket.com to find out how you can

get one of these paintings after this showing (if it isn't sold).

Doves Lifting

2010-05-05T12:39:00.000-07:00

This painting was made with

acrylic paint on canvas.

18"x 24"

The Making of The Maiden's Logo

2010-05-05T11:54:00.000-07:00

All Illustrations are in Watercolor and Pencil.

Logo Created for Cheeky Maiden Soap Company

By Artist Beth Witte

Abstract Art

2010-03-29T17:41:00.000-07:00

I am accustomed to doing kids' art. Colorful, whimsical art and illustration is my passion and it will never change, but I thought I might step out of my box and try some new things that have been rolling around on my mind. I am very inspired by words and music. Especially worship music. You know that sweet moment when you hear a particularly perfect phrase and your mind is frantically trying to gather up and frame those words before they flitter by? I do that all the time. I am always writing quotes on my hand or a nearby scrap of paper, so I can later scribble out my version of what they look like in color. Below are some acrylic paintings that try to capture the emotion of a moment: {Enjoy!}

~ Savior's Fixed Gaze ~

Acrylic on Canvas 18 x 24"

(featured above)

"O death, where is your sting? // O hell, where is your victory? // O church. come stand in the light // The glory of God has defeated the night // He's Alive! He's Alive!"

~ The wonderful words of Matt Maher's song Christ is Risen; CD Alive Again.

~ Rain Soaked ~

Acrylic on Canvas 12 x 24"

(featured above)

"All that You say // Is what You do // All that you promise // You're seeing through // So we wait on You, Lord // And we rise to Your voice // The shout of the King, The Son of God"

~ Matt Maher's song: Shout of the King; Alive Again CD

~ Deuteronomy ~

Acrylic on Canvas 24 x 36"

(featured above)

'I set before you this day blessing and curses: which one will you choose?'

Written here is a portion of scripture: Deuteronomy 8:1-18 and 11:18-25

If you enjoyed these paintings, there will be more to come!

If you are interested in owning a piece, please feel free to contact me.

Sleeping in with a roller coaster in the Autumn in a Treehouse.

2010-03-23T19:54:00.000-07:00

Since I haven't been updating my art projects in any sort of timely fashion, I decided to highlight just a few of my really favorite ones from the month of February and early March:

The painting featured above is an 8x10" watercolor illustration.

I did this painting for a friend of mine who happens to be a great inspiration to me of creativity in parenting. I was reading a blog entry of hers on her website audacitermatris.com

appropriately titled "Sleeping in on Monday". My friend's whimsical way of describing what would - to any other regular mother of small children - normally be a hair pulling experience, was a lovely memorable moment for her family. Many times I read things and the image grows in my mind as I imagine how it would appear on paper or canvas. This time I whipped out my art supplies and tried my best to capture the moment in watercolor and pen. It just wouldn't be right to have a family portrait not of my family on my wall so I mailed it to her just to see what she would think. If you want to know how it was received you are just going to have to look it up among the archives of her blog! :)

This next painting [above] is 18"x 24" acrylic on canvas. It was commissioned by a sweet mother intending to give it to her daughter-in-law for her birthday. She made sure I included all of the birthday-girl's interests and passions, as well as her husband and children!

The above watercolor on canvas is a 12 x 12" illustration of five children enjoying their favorite season in fall leaves. This painting was given as a gift from a wife to her husband for a milestone birthday. Since the glory of his life is his children, he will now have an extra special piece of art to remember this time of life. The funny thing is, the mom found out she was having her 6th little one very soon after this was finished! Congratulations to the happy family!

This last one is one of my favorite pieces. I draw this chalkboard and erase it again for this family about every month or so. I honestly have never measured it. I am guessing it is 2'x3'?

Anyway, this month we celebrate Spring. When I think of springtime I think of blossoms, trees, clean air, new life...! The greatest source for that new life is the Word of God, which is included in the drawing but maybe too small for you to read.

I will leave you with the beautiful passage that goes like this:

Song of Solomon 2:11-13 (New International Version)
"See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land. The fig tree forms its early fruit; the blossoming vines spread their fragrance. Arise, come, my darling; my beautiful one, come with me."

Love Tea Party ~ Remembered

2010-03-23T19:36:00.000-07:00

I am a little late on my promise to update you on the little LOVE Tea Party I planned for my kids in late February.

This was a party for preschool age and younger. I used all the 90 % off deals I got after Valentine's Day and went with the heart theme to create a morning of fun and celebration!

It is always nice to make a table setting for the big people too including coffee, tea, and more grown-up food like bagels and yogurt. Our winter has been long and cold so we were pretty desperate for anything to break up the monotony of finding things to do inside and wishing for a warmer season. Now that we had our fun I have to go think up the next new idea to put a smile on the face of my 5 and 2 year old kids! See ya later!

~ Some of the lovely guests at our LOVE party ~

**** Lots of pretty treats! ****

Hope your Valentine's Day was just as special!

Limited Edition Prints [Art For Haiti]

2010-02-10T18:49:00.000-08:00

We have a total! We were able to donate a total of $506.25 to The Global Orphan Project... In addition to the auction of the original painting which sold for $255, the GRAND TOTAL IS: $761.25! It is because of your generosity that this is possible! Thank you to all who purchased prints of this painting ~ May the Lord open his store houses and greatly shower His blessings on you!

Limited edition archival prints are now available for purchase!

Suggested donation ~ $20

ALL Profits Will be donated to the

Global Orphan Project

Haiti Relief Fund

Remember the $20 is SUGGESTED - to cover printing and shipping. Please donate more (much more) if you can! It is 13" x 19" ~ ready to frame on a special quality watercolor paper (almost like fabric). The colors are perfect - it looks identical to the actual painting. And I will be signing each numbered copy!

Contact me to purchase one

visit the

PenelopeInMyPocket

Facebook Fan Page

Valentine's Day Party Invitation Cover

2010-02-01T08:07:00.000-08:00

Here is a Super Cute Valentine's Day Party Invitation!

We are having a Tea Party for my 5 year old and 2 year old later this month.

Order your own custom-illustrated single-panel invitations or valentines!

Illustration on the front, details on the back. Pack of 20: $75 + Shipping

It doesn't have to be invitations... any occasion for any reason is acceptable. Let your imagination go wild!

Process: Contact me, send me your ideas along with pictures, describe your occasion, and I will make the magic come to life! All for only $75!

Click my contact link now!

3 Little Artists

2010-01-27T15:37:00.000-08:00

Original Watercolor and Pencil Illustration

by Beth Witte

3 4x6" Illustrations matted within a black wooden 9x 17"frame

For Sale! To buy this whimsical, colorful, one-of-a-kind piece visit the Order page and Click Shop Now.

What's New...

2010-01-22T18:45:00.000-08:00

This beautiful handmade necklace is not only a piece of jewelry but a work of love. There are 3 strands of intricately detailed beads gathered together at the neck. The pendant featured is a small pillar of resin filled with buttons. Vintage buttons, wooden beads, shimmery pearls, and tiny glass beads form a pleasing asymmetrical cascade of color down the neckline. The necklace can be made to wear long or short, depending on your whim of the moment. This necklace is one of a kind. There are no more quite like it. The earrings match its style perfectly.

Necklace: $52.00

Earrings: $15.00

Purchased as a set:

$65.00

$7 Shipping

To Buy It Now Visit My Order Page

Art for Haiti

2010-01-15T13:57:00.000-08:00

SOLD! To Amanda Kane for the Winning bid: $255

Thank You to Amanda and all others who made such generous offers! 100 % of the money paid for this painting went to Haiti relief.

16" x 8" Watercolor Painting

Caption Reads:

“Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed,

yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken

nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord,

who has compassion on you. - Isaiah 54:10

All proceeds from the sale of this painting go to the Haiti Relief Effort!

If you would like to buy this original painting go to

Penelope In My Pocket's Facebook Fan page:

Photo Album Art for Haiti:

www.facebook.com/photo

This original framed painting by artist Beth Witte is for sale by auction. Bidding starts at the time of this posting and closes at exactly 7 PM Sunday January 17, 2010. Place your bids on the photo of the painting at the FB fan page. The highest bid wins and if the winner cannot claim it, the painting goes to the next highest. If you know someone who loves art and helping people in need this is a great way to get involved. The people of Haiti need your help! Please +Share!

New Characters

2010-01-11T20:02:00.000-08:00

Both watercolor and pencil 8" x 10"

I really have no idea why I drew these weird little characters. I was just doodling one day and this is what developed. I happen to think the lower one looks very similar to my middle child Elijah. It totally has his eyes and hair! Maybe these guys can represent all the little boys out there that get beyond the point of simple scruffiness to 'NEED a haircut NOW'! Hehe! I know there are other moms who can relate.

Anyway, I really enjoy doing things that are somewhat unpredictable to my usual style but still fit into the category of whimsical and childlike. (I don't always draw princesses and girly stuff!) I love imagining a personality to go along with the creatures I draw. It stirs the imagination! As soon as I thought I had finished drawing I ran into the kids' playroom to ask the experts... Elijah said to add a tail. Cousin Katie put in her vote for a rat-tail like her pet Whiskers. Simeon didn't like a tail but if it was necessary he wanted it to be a white hair ball.

I love tapping into the wisdom {imagination} of children. Getting down on their level and making stories. It is putting it to paper and color that is what ultimately captivates me!

Penelope Buttons

2010-01-11T14:38:00.000-08:00

If you have a blog and you would like to add a

Penelope Button

to your side bar let me know and I'll send it to you!

Want to own something from Penelope? Follow this link to My Shop

2010-01-09T12:30:00.001-08:00

www.etsy.com/shop/PenelopeInMyPocket

Stained Glass Mosaic

2010-01-06T17:04:00.000-08:00

Stained Glass Mosaic

by Jennifer Witte

5" x 7" Framed

I am not the only artist in the family! My sister Jenni creates these beautiful works of art on old pieces of furniture and nostalgic frames. Among her collection are coffee tables, mirrors, decorative tables, vintage window frames and more. She made a chess board once, which is my all-time favorite of her pieces. I wish I had more photos to share with you! She usually goes quite large with her mosaics. This piece is actually among the smallest I have seen of her artwork.

If I could describe Jenni's style it is vintage, eclectic, Anthroplogie... and always something to do with growing things like trees or gardens. Very organic! I just love what she does because each mosaic she creates is incredibly detailed and unique. ~ Just like she is!

If you are interested in having her create you something custom-made, I am sure she would love you to contact her!

E-mail her at: jennirath1@live.com

Bicycle Painting

2009-12-28T10:31:00.000-08:00

Bicycle Painting

- especially for mr. brian parks -

I can't remember the exact dimensions, so I'll make a guess: 2'x 3' x 2"

Acrylic paint on canvas.

This was a contracted art piece in which I was asked to portray the innocence of childhood. When I asked about whether he preferred cityscapes or country scenes -among other questions - Brian answered that he liked it all. Since he is an avid cyclist I knew I wanted to include his love for the sport. I don't know whether I was portraying the boy as a child and then growing into an adult or just a kid imagining himself racing when he is really taking a leisurely ride in the country. That is for Brian to determine! I wanted to link the two scenes into one by the fence continuing through the middle of the painting and corresponding the images on both sides. Enjoy taking a look!

Thanks, Brian for having me paint this for you. I hope it is something that fits your home and continues bringing a smile to your face every day!

Custom Made Holiday Cards

2009-12-18T11:43:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve Invitations

~ 2009 ~

For the past few years it has been fun creating custom invitations for this family. Capturing holiday sparkle with a personal touch... the couple characterized in an original 5"x5" watercolor illustration in festive winter spirit at the Plaza.

The back of the card is on the left and the front is on the right.

I love beautiful packaging! Gift wrap is a passion of mine (can you tell?!) and since the cards already looked like Christmas gifts I wanted to revel in the colors and delight your senses with joy!

Above is the inside of the invitation pictured with a matching individually addressed envelope. A 5" x 5" tri-fold card. Each invitation was made featuring a different glamourous patterned paper as the background. The patterns all follow the same bright color scheme.

* Special note: Thanks to Debbie for your order! I always love creating new things for your wonderful family!

Sage Necklace

2009-12-11T20:55:00.000-08:00

* Sage Necklace *

~ Simple & Elegant ~

Necklace: $18.00

.Contact me for it.

Pink Ball Necklace

2009-12-11T20:50:00.000-08:00

* Pink Ball Necklace *

~ 3 in one ~

Necklace: $24.00 Earrings: $8.00

.Handmade.

.One-of-a-kind.

.Contact me for it.

Dream/Journey Necklace

2009-12-11T20:11:00.001-08:00

* Dream/Journey Necklace *

Looks like 3 necklaces but it is ONE.

Necklace: $18 Earrings: $8

~ Only 1 of this kind available! ~

.Handmade.

.Keepsake.

A Matching-Card Game

2009-12-04T15:50:00.000-08:00

Here is a great gift idea to do with your kids!

While my other 2 kids really get into coloring and art projects, my 5 year old Elijah is more into collecting tiny treasures and building with Legos. He has such a generous attitude and so I really wanted to encourage him to give. This was an idea perfect for a quirky little kid like Elijah!

Eli and I made this project together for his 3 year old cousin. We had a delightful time together searching the internet for free images of cute animals. We printed them out and while I cut, Elijah taped, and after that we decorated a box to keep the cards in.

In Elijah's words: "Zippity-Zappity-Zoo: A Matching Card Game!"

2009-12-04T15:34:00.000-08:00

18" x 24" Acrylic paint on Canvas.

This was a really fun project! The assignment was to paint a portrait and I thought I would change it up a bit from the traditional idea of portrait painting. I thought it might be nice to create something a little crazy and a lot colorful!

This painting is a portrait of Ryann, Payton, and Colton - children of a mom named Jennifer from Colorado. Jennifer's mom, Rosemary, ordered it for her daughter. Here is Jennifer's reaction when she received her painting in the mail:

I LOVE IT, I LOVE IT, I LOVE IT!!!!!!

I am soooo excited, I just got the painting and it is PERFECT!!!!!

You really captured the personalities of the kids, I LOVE that Payton is hanging upside down, that is so her! and Ryann with the Converse and leg warmers and peace earrings---perfect. I really think Colton looks exactly like him! The goggles, necklace, animal crackers--so perfect!

I love this painting so much, I just love looking at it. I can't wait for the kids to get home from school to see it.

Thank you so much, I have a perfect spot to hang it up for all to see!

Thank you again,

Jennifer

A great big thanks to Rosemary and Jennifer! It was great working with you ~ Enjoy your new art piece and may God bless you this Christmas!

We Thank God When We Think of You

2009-12-01T18:43:00.000-08:00

This is a 5" x 5" watercolor and pencil illustration. I made this card a while ago for my mom. You can tell because the double-sided tape is showing through the background. Even so, this has been one of my favorite pieces I have ever come up with. Maybe because I love my mom's beautiful energy for life and I got to use that as a theme, or just because I like drawing my kids, but I think that it is mainly because it really looks like my mom and her grandkids. Simeon is kind of cool about holding the flowers he picked for 'Nonnie', Elijah is showing off a slimy treasure, and Liam is in his little taxi cab hat! Of course Nonnie is holding her little chubby baby Penny, as always. When I customize a piece of art I try to capture that certain 'special something' that encompasses a personality trait. Not only will it turn out resembling that person, but the viewer identifies with an emotion the artwork portrays. Well, there is some artistic philosophy for you. And now you know what I am thinking when I am drawing.

2009-11-28T20:12:00.000-08:00

Here is a crafty thing I did for my first grader's teacher. Actually, it was for the student teacher who was leaving after her 6 month internship. I thought I would make a card that looked like a kid made it. So after a visit to my box of paper scraps, much scissor action, and about a pound of clear tape the result is what you see here. I tucked the card into a clear party favor bag with some tissue paper, a huge paper clip, and a necklace & earrings mounted on brown card board.

I think the presentation was pretty cute! What do you think?

Enjoying the Journey

2009-11-09T14:58:00.000-08:00

This is actually the 2nd riding helmet I have worked on!

This helmet was customized for Wanda and her beautiful horse Brittanee.

Wanda showed me photos of Brittanee and the special rope & 'carrot stick' among other identifying details. Beginning as a plain black surface, the helmet now displays references to the core principals of this horse-rider's heart!

~ Thank you to Donna for your order ~

Acrylic Paint

Hand painted by Beth Witte

. penelopeinmypocket .

Gabriel's Painting

2009-11-09T13:51:00.000-08:00

Acrylic Paint 18"x 24" Canvas

This is a special memorial project for a little boy named Gabriel. Gabriel went to heaven at the age of 2 during the summer of 2008. His loved ones wanted to remember his vibrant love for life in a dedication of the Nursery at a local crisis pregnancy center.

This painting will make it's home at The Aid and Assist Center located at 75th & Lamar in Kansas City, Missouri.

Painted by Beth Witte

. penelopeinmypocket .

2009-11-07T11:03:00.000-08:00

Here is some more jewelry to dazzle your eye!

Contact me for purchasing:

Include the name of the piece, wrist size if applicable, and your address.

2009-11-05T16:26:00.000-08:00

~ 3 Point Earrings ~

$13.00 + Shipping

Shipping $5

See previous posts for Ordering info.

2009-11-05T06:18:00.000-08:00

~ Charm Link Bracelet ~

2009-11-04T19:06:00.000-08:00

Just starting your Holiday Shopping?

~ The 3 Strand Bracelet ~

My inspiration for this piece is the bright whimsical colors of ornaments on a Christmas tree. I didn't want to sentence this bracelet to life and death only during the Christmas season so I included colors that could be worn any time of the year. This is the equivalent to three bracelets in one! I only have the materials to make a few of these so if you want one you better get it quick!

Shipping is $5

To order: Click my Order page and don't forget to Contact Me with your wrist size and address.

I accept PayPal

{But if I know you personally I might let you write me a check!}

*If you like this ~ I will be posting more jewelry very soon! *

Butterfly Shadow Box

2009-11-02T18:16:00.000-08:00

12"x 26" Wall Mount. I made these hand crafted paper butterflies and adhered them to canvas in this shadow box using straight pins.

* Embellishments found at Urban Arts and Crafts. *

Spooky House: Treat Transporter

2009-10-24T19:18:00.000-07:00

My oldest son, Simeon had his 7th birthday Oct. 22. I admit, I have created high expectations when it comes to class treats. He was full of ideas. He especially wanted to top his little brother's party favors from two weeks prior.

There I was in the kitchen finishing up spider-snickers and snicker-ghosts when I had an idea. I was going to create a cardboard haunted house! So I got some empty boxes and my paint and went to work. I guess I got a little carried away but he just had to have something fun to house his little treasures!

Monster Fuzz

2009-10-12T12:08:00.000-07:00

Here is a cute crafty idea for you to try...

...That is, if you like making things. {If you don't, you are welcome to contact me and I'll do it for you!}

It was my middle son's birthday last Friday and we helped celebrate Elijah turning 5 by making these sweet little monster party favors for his preschool friends to take home. Elijah loves anything with googlie eyes so he jumped right into helping me make these little creatures. I worked the scissors and the hot glue gun while he applied the parts and pieces. We also made spiders on top of oatmeal cream cookies. When we were all finished we packed the monsters and spiders into a plastic farm playhouse and labeled it 'Elijah's Monster Farm', which made the passing out of treats extra special!

Both my sons have birthdays in the month of October and there is normally an abundance of Halloween craft supplies and so we use that to our advantage and go with a similar theme. Whether you use this craft idea for a birthday or for Halloween treats - have a happy Party Time!

A 'Great' Gift

2009-10-07T19:17:00.000-07:00

This gift is great because it was for my Great Grandma Opal.

This is the second occasion for which I have had the honor of creating a gift on her behalf. In this case it is a wedding card for her other great granddaughter (also named Beth, I might add).

My Great Grandma is not able to get out and about but she is a giver at heart and she knows where she can come to order a personalized piece of art that will hopefully be a keepsake for years to come! I hope she continues to ask me whenever she needs to give a gift.

The card is an original watercolor, 5"x 7", with beads and wire. I included a personal message inside.

As an after thought, I threw in a little something special for her on the top.

* Oh, and my services are free to anyone 95 & older, by the way.

The Bowl

2009-10-02T19:09:00.000-07:00

I cannot simply hand over jewelry in a plain old way. No, it must be pretty.

I have a closet stashed with gift components. Stuff like bowls, boxes, coin purses, teas, soaps, ribbon, tissue paper, and anything that will fill in an empty crevasse with delight for the senses.

It was my friend Erin's birthday a few days ago and I got to see her today so I pulled this out to let her know I wish I could have been there to help make her day awesome.

I love dangly earrings, don't you?

Oh, and... much love to you, Erin, my dear - you wear this jewelry so well!

Seems I was Perfectly 'Cut Out' for this Project

2009-09-30T20:01:00.000-07:00

This project came to me just in time for me to pour my love for the season of Fall into an art piece! I am not really sure what to call this thing I made. I collaborated with my tool-clad father on this one. He is a builder by trade and I was able to rely on his carpentry skills to make this work. I began with a 2'x4' piece of plywood, painted it with acrylic paint, watched it dry and handed it over to my dad to finish. He did the cutting, the wood supports and the weather proof coating.

I've documented the process here for creating a wooden cut-out for kids to stick their faces in and get their picture taken.

It will be displayed at a pumpkin farm in Kansas City, MO. We have a lot of farms around here that have Fall-ish type activities for families. Stuff like pumpkin patches, apple-picking, chicken-feeding, honey-eating, animal-petting, hay-ride-riding... you get the picture. It is the stuff I dream of all year round. Perfect weather, Autumn smells, leaves turning beautiful, and great scenes for picture-taking. That is where I come in on this project. I will get to add my piece of silliness to the farm and hopefully make somebody smile for a moment!

Thanks and appreciation goes out to Craig O'Reilly at www.ahwyfireworks.com. His pumpkin farm will be the new home for this colorful cut-out. I hear he's got a lot of nice mums.