Guest Blog by A.J. Smith

On Inspiration by A.J. Smith-Mixed Media Artist

So there I was, meditating, praying and becoming one with the Divine. This is how I begin my creative process. I have found pulling energy from the Great Creator is the easiest way for me to get my creative juices flowing. There are many ways to receive inspiration, such as taking a walk. Try engaging your senses while walking, breathing in the aroma of nature, listening to the birdsongs. Read, write, travel! Music, poetry, dancing, theatre and dreams can provoke the spark to create.

My name is A.J Smith (AKA Alligator Jane) and I am a self taught mixed media abstract energy artist. I live in Asheville, NC, USA, one of the most beautiful places on earth. I am inspired by the incredible surroundings and use nature as my subject. My work is filled with energy and imagination. I am passionate about the environment and enjoy using repurposed materials in my art. One of my favourite pieces is a mermaid crafted out of recycled bottles, like mosaic, with an old cabinet door as canvas. This composition has seashells grouted on the outer edges of the cabinet, all inlaid in resin. In my current body of study, I use acrylic paint on repurposed wood board. I apply an acrylic resin treatment to bring out the colour and give the artwork depth, dimension and a shiny wet look I add glitter, beads and other found objects for interest and fun!

I’ve recently opened a booth at an eclectic little shop called Bon Vivant, featuring local goods, antiques and vintage finds. Send me a message if you are ever in Asheville, I will be happy to show you around! If you would like to enjoy more of my work, check out my facebook page at http://facebook/AligatorJane . You can contact me at ArtistAlligatorJane@yahoo.com.

 

 

I’ll leave you with this prayer:

 

Oh Most Glorious and Blessed Divine, Thank you for the blessing of creation itself. Thank you for the blessing of inspiration. Thank you for guiding my thoughts and my body to produce works of art that touch and benefit humanity. Thank you for the new possibilities that will be sparked forth on this earth. Thank you for shining your white light upon me, so that I may shine mine.