Art Smorgasbord - Put On The New Self

Happy 2013!  It's a new year, so it's the perfect opportunity to reflect on Paul's letter to Colossians 3 and "Put On The New Self."  Therefore, in this post I will "seek the things that are above, where Christ is, at the right hand of God… not on things that are on earth."

© Arnoldo L. Romero 2013
Over at Artists in Blogland: Fall Fearless and Fly Challenge #7, Joanne Sharpe challenged us to reflect in our art journals on the perfection/imperfection of what our lives turned out to be.  As a human, my life has not been perfect, and probably never will be.  However, I can thrive to follow Paul's advice and "put to death" what is earthly in me.  How can I do this?  According to Paul, I need to put on a compassionate heart, be kind, humble, meek, patient, bear with others, and be forgiving.  However, above all, I need to "put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony."  I composed my art journal entry based on the latter quote.  I started by writing the key words with a gel pen and layering watercolor washes using a paint scraper.  When it was dry, I collaged some scraps of Oriental script and highlighted different areas with a water soluble pencil.  Next, I lettered the text with a micron pen, and added some markings on the corners.  The rebus heart was done with water soluble pencils too.  As a finishing touch, I added a K&Company Smash tab and a faux stamp.  I am also submitting this page to Paint Party Friday: Week 42 Year 2 and What's On Your Workdesk Wednesday #187.

© Arnoldo L. Romero 2013
© Arnoldo L. Romero 2013
In the same spirit of renewal, I designed the two pieces above.  The first piece, which I titled "2013 Renewal," is in my post for Tag Tuesday - New Year.  You can read all about it there, as well as how I tried a new technique I learned from a Martha Stewart glittering kit.  I am submitting the tag to Simon Says Stamp Challenge: New Something and to the Crazy Amigo Challenge - Happy New Year.  I designed the invitation for Word Art Wednesday Challenge #61 - Trust, where I'm the guest designer for the month of January.  (Thank you, Karen!)  I used a Tim Holtz card base and attached a faux postcard, as well as a postage stamp to it.  I hand lettered a portion of Psalm 118:8 on the postcard with a calligraphy marker - you can download a similar digi of the scripture for free on the WAW blog.  I hand colored the digi36801 Crosses Border by Eureka, who is one of our 3 sponsors this week at WAW, with colored pencils and markers.  I glued the border to my card, and enhanced the central cross with Glossy Accents.  As a finishing touch, I tied a strip of ribbon along the bottom portion.  I am also submitting the invitation to Simon Says Stamp and Show: Totally Mad (No Rules) Tea Party and the Order of the Opus Gluei: Challenge #47 - Free For All.

© Arnoldo L. Romero 2013
© Arnoldo L. Romero 2013
Last, but not least, I want to renew my vow to my Lord with the two pieces above.  The first one is a pen and ink drawing I did back in the year 2000, for my brother, who has it prominently displayed in his living room.  I titled it "El Calvario" or "The Calvary."  I gave it to him as a reminder that Jesus was the atonement for our sins.  Therefore, Resurrection Sunday, or Easter, is one of the most important celebrations in the Christian calendar in my mind.  I am submitting this piece to the Artist's Play Room #38 - Celebrate.  The photograph, which I took last week during a walk with my daughters, is a reminder to me of the importance of leading my daughters in the way of the Lord.  Although I will perish or "fade away" someday, I want to make sure they are saved.  I am submitting this photograph to 52 Photos Project: Gallery 37 {Softly Fade Away}.

In closing, I want to wish you all love, joy, peace, health, and a financial stability during 2013.  May we all put on a "New Self."  Godspeed!

Comments

Diane Noble said…
How fun to come to your blog and see these wonderful creations to accompany your Word Art Wednesday sample. You have such varied expression in your artwork! One would never get bored coming to your blog. Your hand lettering is amazing. I've always wanted to learn how to do that. Renewal comes each and everyday as we submit ourselves to the Lordship of Christ. He has made us into new creatures and He is renewing us day by day. What a wonderful resolution to "put on the new self" through the power of Christ at work within. So happy to have you on board with us during the month of January, Arnoldo!
Candy C said…
Arnoldo...beautiful work! I am so impressed with your creative spirit and your commitment to the Lord. Blessings on you and your family! Thanks for sharing your art and your faith with us at Simon Says Stamp and Show. <3 Candy
Julia Dunnit said…
I love the words you've chosen to journal, it's really striking...and I would agree that they sure are words to live by. happy New Year Arnoldo
Ali H said…
Great to see your work & how your art is celebrating your faith ! Thanks for sharing - I will be looking up the Love That Binds verse to see what it has to say to me ! Happy New Year
Ali #121
Leovi said…
Wonderful compositions, beautiful butterfly. Happy 2013.
GlorV1 said…
Happy 2013 Arnoldo. Enjoy the year. Great words for your creative artwork. Look forward to seeing your work this year. Take care.
Winnie said…
Wonderful pieces as always. The glittery butterfly is striking, and the piece you made for your brother must be something he will treasure always. I wanted to say the picture from your walk with your daughters and your feelings about it and the importance you play in their life and spiritual growth was so touching.
Gloria j Zucaro said…
I always get so much content, both artistic and spiritual from your posts, Arnoldo. I really think the pen & ink drawing is superb!
Tenia Nelson said…
What wonderful ART!!!! You are soooooo talented!!! Happy 2013!!!
Your journal page, the butterfly, the postcard, the photo of the 3, and above all the connection to scripture and God are all fabulous! I love reading your blog and looking at your work...so inspirational! Happy New Year!!!
Fabulous and creative ARTWORK here around!Take care!healthy and sucessfull new year and a big hug from
FROEBELSTERNCHEN FROM AUSTRIA

ART-JOURNAL-JOURNEY

I am a new follower now!
Deepa Gopal said…
Beautiful art...lovely compositions! Loved the gorgeous butterfly.
Happy New Year!
Gini said…
Lovely drawing and happy new year to you too :-)
Gini
xx
Opus Gluei
Borqna said…
Arnoldo - beautiful work!
Congratulations!
I really like looking your blog.
Here I find inspiration for my projects.
The last few months I haven't written comments - I apologize.
I often come here in your blog looking for peace and quiet. Here I find very pleasant atmosphere. I just felt good here and I forget my worries. I forgot to tell you, even just one thank you...
Now:
Thank you! Thank you!
Good luck!
Paula (PEP) said…
Your Calvary drawing just caught my breath - tremendous & I love your last photo - it's so true what you say. Wishing you & your family a Peaceful 2013.
Paula (PEP)
Your art has been a blessing to me from the day I came upon your blog, Arnoldo. And then, as I started to catch a glimpse into your heart and learned of your deep love for the Lord and His precious Word, my admiration of your art (and you as a person) only continuned to grow. You have become a constant source of blessing and encouragement, and I am SO grateful for you. Let God's name be lifted up and glorified as you share your talents to bring glory to Him. Thanks Arnoldo - it's a blessing having you with us!
Karen
Word Art Wednesday
Stampsnob. said…
Wonderful things to strive for ! My only New Year Resolution I am ashamed to say is to use Eco bags when shoooing.I have to rethink after reading your blog......Lis
Faye said…
I cannot think of a better artist for guest artist this week for Word Art Wednesday! Your post is wonderfully diverse with photos and drawings and paintings. And the faux postcard with real calligraphy is gorgeous.
Gemiel said…
Arnoldo, we are so blessed to have you designing with us at Word Art Wednesday this month. As always your art is so beautiful and uplifting. I can't wait to see what you create with next Wednesday's word. God's peace and blessings to you in 2013.
Danielle said…
I thoroughly enjoyed all your wonderful pieces of art and your post! I am taking one of Joanne's online classes right now and it is amazing how much one lesson can expand my creativity and imagination. I love it.
Neesie said…
A beautiful post with stunning art work Arnoldo,
It's always a pleasure to visit your blog. It always inspires :-)
I wish you and your family all the best for a peaceful, happy, healthy and blessed New Year.
TwinkleToes2day said…
What wonderful work you have begun the new year with and I love the 'shadow' picture of you and your daughters. Have a wonderfully prosperous 2013 and beyond. :0) Mo
Jennifer McLean said…
thanks for coming back so early in the year to participate. Happy New Year Arnoldo, I appreciate your loyalty. Hope your 2013 brings all your wishes.
Anna-Karin said…
Gorgeous projects and very inspiring. Love the glittery butterfly and the wonderful sentiment on your journal page. Thank you for sharing with us at Simon Says Stamp and Show! Happy New Year!
Being Mrs Miles said…
FABULOUS and original take on this challenge. You inspire me to take out my non-traditional carding supplies! Thanks for sharing your talent. Glad I visited you today!

Blessings, Barb
Unknown said…
Arnoldo, I remember the first time I came to your blog. I thought It was the wrong place as this must be a very famous artist. (and you are) Your work speaks and resonates inside my heart. We love having you guet design.
Carole
May the LORD bless you and keep you.
April said…
Your work is beautiful. April #133
Bella Cirovic said…
I love your selection for this week's theme!
Thank you for sharing.
carol l mckenna said…
You are an 'enlightened' soul and shows well in your journal pages ~ Wonderfully done ~ ^_^

A Creative Harbor) aka ArtMuseDog and Carol ^_^
WrightStuff said…
Beautiful work with such meaning. Just lovely.
Saskia said…
Great work on your blog!

Greetings from Belgium,
Saskia :)
Currie Silver said…
BEautiful and inspiring, Arnoldo. Happy New Year!!
Anne Manda said…
Beautiful, creative and thoughtful work Arnoldo! Love coming here and seeing your art! Happy New Year 2013!
Tracey said…
Wow so many creative beautiful projects to adore Arnoldo! Thanks so much for joining us at Simon Says Stamp and Show :)
Put on love...yes, very good to remember and not always easy to do. Love your creative, lettering. :)
Desire Fourie said…
Arnoldo, you are very talented. Love all your creative artwork.
Hugs
Desíre
{Doing Life – my personal blog}

Mandy said…
Fabulous creations Arnoldo, I love the pretty and sparkly butterfly.
Thanks for joining us at Simon Says Stamp
hugs Mandy xx
Anonymous said…
A beautiful dedication to your daughters!
Ann said…
Wonderful postcard. I love the Calligraphy, I have dabbled with that myself. I think it is so enjoyable. Blessings to you.
Marlena M. said…
Gorgeous work, I especially love the piece you drew for your brother~
Faye said…
Your inspiration pieces for January WAW have been super. Love your work.