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Art Lesson in Less than 5 Minutes: Learn How to Draw and Paint Decorative Masks
Follow along to this quick art lesson as I walk you through the process of learning how to draw and watercolor decorative masks one might see at Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Carnevale in Venice, Canaval do Brasil or at a masked ball any time of year!
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Creative Wanderlust Prompt: Mardi Gras
I can only imagine the buzz that is happening in Rio de Janiero, Brazil;, New Orleans, Louisiana; and Venice, Italy right now! It is Mardi Gras time (otherwise known as Carnevale in Venice and Carnaval do Brasil in Rio.) These cities are living it up before the religious season of Lent begins. Lent is a 40 day period that comes before Easter in the Christian calendar. It begins on Ash Wednesday, and ends with the Easter celebration. It is a season to reflect on the passion and sacrifices made by Jesus with fasting and penitence. Thus, the week before Lent begins cities around the world celebrate with one long party!! The…
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15 Minute Art Lesson: Learn How to Draw a Historic New Orleans Home
Follow along with this ~15 minute lesson and learn how to draw a New Orleans Garden District house, the Morris-Israel Home. We will virtually travel to NOLA where I will tell you a little about the house. Then, I will teach you a doodle approach to drawing the iron work sometimes called “iron lace” to give the impression of intricacy yet with a loose impressionistic approach. Following this lesson will not only show you how to draw this specific New Orleans home, but also teach your techniques to be able to draw houses and building around the world with similar ornate ironwork detailing. Be sure to share this video and…
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Creative Wanderlust Prompt: New Orleans
New Orleans or NOLA as many like to call it, is a city full of vibrancy, energy, color and personality! It’s hard to find a city that embodies so must creative spirit, diversity and fascinating cultural aspects; music, food, religion, history, architecture, nature, traditions and so much more. Each one tells an inspirational story that can prompt endless amounts of creativity. Like most of the cities across the United States, NOLA is a true melting pot of people and traditions dating back to before the nation was even formed. Its proximity to the Caribbean as well as its French roots gives it an individual flavor unlike any other location in…
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Art School: How to Draw a Mask
Masks are a part of many celebrations around the world, namely Carnevale in Venice, Italy; Carnaval do Brazil; and Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Some believe masks were a pagan practice to ward off evil spirits, but now they are more worn for anonymity and decoration. Enjoy this tutorial and have fun designing your own decorative mask for any occasion.
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Culture: Food – Fresh Farmers Markets in the South and East
When exploring any city, I love to head over to the local farmers market. It’s always a great way to a flavor of the local scene as well as pick up some delicious bites to eat. Here are some must-see farmers markets along the eastern seaboard! Charleston Farmers Market – Charleston, South Carolina Located in the heart of the historic district in Marion Square, the Charleston Farmers Market supports Lowcountry farmers and growers, artisans and crafters, live performers and community groups. From locally grown produce to Southern specialties, residents from the entire Lowcountry region and tourists alike enjoy this farmers market tradition. The Market at Pepper Place – Birmingham, Alabama Serving…
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Culture: Food – Beignets in New Orleans
There’s no doubt– a trip to New Orleans just isn’t complete without at least one fluffy, powdered sugar covered beignet and bitter cup of chicory coffee. This signature treat of New Orleans is served in many restaurants across the city, but the true place to experience this is to take a pilgrimage to the famed Cafe du Monde located at the corner of Jackson Square and just a stones throw from the Mississippi River. Beignets are best served at breakfast time, but also can make a delicious desert. If your a morning person, I suggest waking up relatively early and heading out on a vigorous walk through the French quarter (this is also…
