droolicious : art

7 Days of Dad: Can You Picture This?

JeanneSager — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 13:01:00 GMT

He ponied up for Mother's Day, so now it's time to get cracking on how to make Dad's day. Lucky for you, we were wondering too. So we're offering up seven days of what we'll be giving the guy who reads bedtime stories and changes stinky diapers.

Pictures of his little munchkins always make Dad's day, but do you think he really wants another t-shirt he'll have to shove to the back of the closet? Another coffee mug with their mug?

Greet him on Father's Day morning with a giant canvas made from his favorite pic. The folks at Shutterfly take art-worthy shots to the next level of presentation with high quality prints wrapped around immense wooden canvases (my husband's only words? "wow, just wow" when he saw a pic I picked of our daughter remade as a 20 x 30 shot for our wall). They'll take dad's appreciation for art to another level too.

A few tips:- depending on what size canvas you're going for, pre-crop your images so you get exactly what you want. Remember: a lot of today's digital SLRs do not take a standard size photo, so you can leave it up to Shutterfly, but they will have to do some adjusting to make it fit the canvas. Also, key in on the focus in your pictures - at 20 x 30, mistakes show up big time! You want to pick a picture that reprepesents the best of your kids' scrapbook.

The canvas prints are on sale until June 16. At $50 off, now's the time to get one, so check them out at Shutterfly.

Want to save a little dough and still go the photo route? Shutterfly's 252-piece puzzles give him something to do WITH the kids. Their photo is superimposed on a sturdy cardboard sheet, then cut to make a game for the whole family. At $24.99, it's easy on the pocketbook and did we say it gives them something to do? That's priceless!

A few tips: choose a photo that's VERY colorful. Monochromatic photos or those with a lot of one color in the background make for a major puzzle challenge. The pieces are small, so this is for your older kids (age four at the minimum - although it depends on your child's puzzle skills).

Check out more gifts for Dad this week on the 7 Days of Dad.

Create and Color With Rosie Flo

SunnyChanel — Sun, 24 May 2009 17:30:00 GMT

Rosie Flo’s Animals Coloring Book is a whimsical collection of animal themed images to decorate, color and liven up. But there are some things missing…heads, arms and legs.

This collection of exotic animal themed outfits like a worm covered tunic, zebra party dress and a sea creature encrusted wedding gown all need heads, arms and legs drawn in to complete the picture. It’s like a visit to a fantastic, festive, and literally wild closet with you and your kids creating the context. You can get coloring from Chronicle Books here for $8.99.

The Anti-Coloring Book

Lisa Mulcahy — Fri, 15 May 2009 16:00:00 GMT

Do traditional coloring books stifle creativity by forcing kids to stay within the lines? This one, created by the founder of a Manhattan art program for preschoolers, takes a different approach.

The Anti-Coloring Book by Susan Striker and Edward Kimmel encourages abstract and creative thinking by giving kids tasks like “design your own robot” and “draw your future in a crystal ball.” So instead of mindlessly doodling Dora and Boots (which is not necessarily a bad thing) your child will have to think outside the lines and draw from within himself.

$10.40 at Amazon.

Can't See the ABCs for All the Trees

JeanneSager — Tue, 12 May 2009 15:01:00 GMT

What do you do will those alphabet charts when your kids are already reading? With the Trees and ABCs posters from Blue Sky Rocket, you leave 'em up.

After all - you have to look hard to see the ABCs for all the trees. The animal antics of all the critters make these prints fun for tots who love to play I Spy. And for parents, there's the added bonus that the animals make this art last beyond the toddler years (they'd make a funky office print).

Get them from Blue Sky Rocket - an 8x10 is $20.

Stamps Of World Famous Structures From Muji

Chris Ford — Mon, 04 May 2009 13:30:00 GMT

My girls are big fans of the New York City In A Bag from Muji, so I recently checked out what other cool stuff they might have for kids, and these stamps jumped right out at me. Kind of like the CIty In A Bag, each stamp is of a different famous structure around the world.

My favorite is the Eiffel Tower (pictured), but there are seven others to choose from - including Tokyo Tower, BIg Ben, The Statue of Liberty and (of course) the Empire State Building. The actual patterns the stamps themselves create are kind of a simple outline of a skyline view of the building, which I happen to like much more than any sort of individual representation of the building would have been. And the best part is each are only $5.75, so if your kids are into artwork and crafts it's definitely something to check out.

Famous building stamps (various), $5.75 from Muji.us

One-of-A Kind Handcrafted Silhouettes

SunnyChanel — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 19:30:00 GMT

We at Babble have a thing for silhouettes with all their simplicity, their style, and their charm. And when the silhouette is of your own kid, well then this old school art form rises to a masterpiece like status. Cortney Spillane, of Tangents & Curiosities, carefully handcrafts one-of-a-kind silhouettes of precious little profiles. Each piece is meticulously created from a reclaimed frame, carefully selected background paper and, of course, your offspring’s mug.

Full disclosure: my daughter goes to preschool with the artist’s son. One of the highlights of our recent school auction was the weathered antique doors set up to display silhouettes of each and every child in the school. Every one of them unique, gorgeous, and very very sweet.

But you don’t have to go to our school to get your own. You can place a custom order to have one created from a photograph of your child’s profile. Each one, framed, goes for $35. You can order or contact Cortney here.

Mural Painting 101

Lisa Mulcahy — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 01:00:00 GMT

As a follow-up to Jeanne’s post last week about paint by number wall art for the nursery, here’s another resource to get that designer look on a do-it-yourself budget.

If you’ve ever thought about hiring an artist to paint a mural in the nursery, but soon realized that custom work can get quite pricey, Elephants on the Wall is for you. With a wide selection of kits to create modern murals you can get professional results. Each kit (I like this Silhouette Fun for Boys one, $64.95) comes with pattern, transfer paper, directions & color guide. You have to provide the paint and patience, but the end product is pretty amazing.

For Those Arty Fingers – The Crayon Rings

SunnyChanel — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 21:00:00 GMT

Yup, you can actually wear your artistic tools. This set of colorful rings aren’t just to dress up your fingers, these handcrafted pieces of jewelry are actually crayons. This set was created by Timothy Lilies and are just available in size 7, so they will be too big for your little one’s fingers but it will keep them busy. Just think, you’re out to brunch and you can just pull off your ring for some instant amusement. The set goes for $50 and you can pick them up, for a limited time, from The Future Project here.

Pink Plastic Octomom Sculpture Too Freaky For Words

Chris Ford — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 15:00:00 GMT

To simply say "file this one in the 'Bizarre' category" might be the understatement of the year - but then again, who am I to judge what art is? If you're even more fascinated by the Nadya Suleman "Octomom" story than NBC News and the Today Show seem to be (and that would have to be pretty damn fascinated) then this limited edition sculpture might be for you.

The sculpture entitled "String of Babies" is made of pink flexible polyurethane, is 9" x 12" x 12" and is signed and numbered by the artist, Guy Hepner. For a mere $199.00 you can get one of the limited edition 200 pieces. According to Mom Logic (where I found this little gem) the price will go up after the first 50 are sold. So if a pink plastic Angelina Jolie look-alike head holding eight baby-heads and a bottle in octopus tentacles is something you might be interested in - then there's no time like the present.

"String of Babies", sculpture by Guy Hepner. $199.00 from GuyHepner.com [via Mom Logic].

Octomom Gets Arty

SunnyChanel — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 18:00:00 GMT

With her pockets full of money from online exclusives, interviews and photos, Nadya Suleman, aka Octomom, did what those flush with funds do, they go shopping. Although Suleman was snapped spending more than a grand at a Mac cosmetics counter, she went out and got some goodies for the kids too. Here Suleman is shown at ToysRUs purchasing a Crayola Magnetic Double Easel (although she does need one good for 14).

This easel is two sided with one side featuring a metal dry-erase board and the other a chalkboard. Also included are 77 foam magnetic letters and numbers. A large paper clip on each side will hold craft paper for painting or drawing and there are four detachable storage bins for holding art accessories. This item is an exclusive for ToysRUs and if you like to get one for your kid or kids (hopefully you don’t happen to have 14 like Suleman) you can pick one up here for $44.99.

Photo via TMZ.com

First Look: Pearhead Wall Art

Nicole Feliciano — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 15:30:00 GMT

A new way to preserve first memories from Pearhead.

Those perfect little baby fingers are so delicious. We think they deserve to be commemorated. Pearhead has a modern new design that is an inventive way to preserve this moment in time (once babies start crawling it’ll be tough to get him to sit still for the painting process).

Pearhead Modern has a brand new Handprint Wall Art Set ($26). The set includes four blank canvases in bright pop colors and all the tools necessary to create some groovy baby-centric wall art. Grab a friend and splash the white paint cute baby parts. You're on your way to capturing the beauty of those chubby little hands and toes. Also available in a pink color scheme.

Modern Wall Decor

Lisa Estall — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 23:22:00 GMT

Artist Anthony Peters aka Imeus Design has designed this colorful, wall decoration to hang in any room.

It's called In the Forest and comes in two sizes.

Sold in Euros. Check out other new works at L'Affiche Moderne.

Art for Kids: Octy with a Hat

AmandaHill — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 23:00:00 GMT

Octy with a Hat is the cute little print seen above. It is an 8"x 10" original collage by Kate Endle. Octy with a Hat is a charming print that would look fabulous in a nursery. It's fun and inventive. I kind of want it for my own room.

Click on over to Kate Endle's Etsy Shop. She has an amazing collection of art.

Classical Baby is Endearing & Enchanting

Cathy Hale — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Whether you have a huge library of DVDs or just a few special ones, the Classical Baby 3-Pack is a wonderful addition to your collection. We've all heard babies love classical music. Well, even if they don't they will fall in love with this incredible show and so will you! Brought to you by HBO Family, Classical Baby features stunning animation with the most adorable characters you've ever seen, plus famous musical pieces, revered artwork and lots of dancing.

This DVD set includes "The Music Show," "The Art Show," and "The Dance Show." Each one is beautifully choreographed and incredibly enjoyable. Bach, Mozart, Bartok, Degas, Van Gogh, Pilobolus...how can you go wrong? Shop Classical Baby 3-Pack DVD at Amazon.

Bookworm Series: Sandra Magsamen Writes Too!

Cathy Hale — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 20:00:00 GMT

I discovered Sandra's whimsical, wonderful, ceramic art in 1993, at a beautiful little gift shop in Richmond, VA. Today she writes children's book that are just as magical! Her "Snuggle-Me Stories" series includes Bedtime Bunny, a delightful read with a sweet rhyming story and a plush bunny finger puppet. Adorable addition to your baby's library and also makes a great baby shower or birthday gift. Find it at Barnes & Noble. Learn more about Sandra.

Dr. Seuss’s Unorthodox Taxidermy

SunnyChanel — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 16:00:00 GMT

Are you and your family fans or followers of the work of Dr. Seuss. Do you not only enjoy reading the books, wearing the vintage style tees but do you yearn for new ways to display your love for the whimsical world of the Cat in the Hat? If you answered yes to any or all of those, or if you just like something weird, check out these unique pieces from the Limited Edition “Art of Dr. Seuss – Unorthodox Taxidermy”.

The piece above is entitled “Semi-Normal Green-Lidded Fawn” and was made in a limited edition of 850. But these “surreal Seussian creatures” don’t come cheap. The one above will put you back $3495 art lovin’ bucks. To see the rest of the collection, check it out here.

Hanging up your Handmade Art

AmandaHill — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 20:30:00 GMT

My daughter is at the age where she is bringing home her art work from preschool on a regular basis. We like to bring old school to the new school by hanging all of the artwork up on our refrigerator. We also like to spice it up with adorable magnets like those seen above. Click behind the fold to learn more about these fabulous magnets.

The whole collection of Kambashi Asian Art magnets is so cute. The magnets are all $3.00 a piece, and if you're the magnet using type, could be really cute along side all of the handmade art your preschooler brings home. Click on over to Kambashi to order yours.

Chew On This Art

SunnyChanel — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 00:15:00 GMT

Fingerpaints? Boring. Crayons? So yesterday. Chalk? Been there, done that. What art kit will keep your little artist busy, amused and utilizing a material that not only uses their artistic instincts but their chewing power? The Chew-By–Numbers GumArt Tulips. The kit includes GumArt numbered canvas, gum, gum reference guide and gum chewing and spreading instructions. It’s a chewy good time. There is also a sugar-free design if you want something a bit more tooth friendly. You can pick one up here for $14.99.

Etsy Alert: Alligators Love Donuts

SunnyChanel — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 18:00:00 GMT

I have no proof that the following statement is true: Alligators Love Donuts. But regardless if they do enjoy a chocolate dipped or the occasion sprinkled, one thing is not debatable….this print is totally cute. Created by Etsy Seller Monkey Powered, the Alligators Love Donuts giclee print is a whimsical addition to your alligator and or donut loving offspring. You can pick up one of these original prints here for $24.

Time to Upgrade from Play-Doh to Pottery Wheel?

Lisa Mulcahy — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 20:30:00 GMT

Now that winter’s set in it’s time to line up some indoor activities that will keep the kids busy and get out some energy. What better way than to pound on clay. (It’s actually quite therapeutic for adults too.)

Designed for ages eight and up this motorized pottery wheel, $59.95, has all the function of a professional potter’s wheel. It’s foot pedal-operated and has dual speed and dual direction settings. Included are sculpting tools, six paints and a brush, as well as air-dry clay mix. Now kids can make clay creations without parents searching for an art studio that will kiln fire their precious little pots.

The Crayon Apron Keeps Them in Line

SunnyChanel — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 14:00:00 GMT

In my house, there is always a stray crayon here, there, and everywhere. I dream of a day where they all stay in one place (and in one piece). The Crayon Apron has the potential to do just that. This adorable artist apron will neatly hold 24 crayons in the each of the 24 little pockets. Plus the apron is cute too with it’s retro old school style. You can pick one up here for $25.

Fresko Cardboard Play House

Chris Ford — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 20:31:00 GMT

Looking for a play-tent alternative to to give to your kids? The Fresko cardboard house just might be the thing.

The Fresko House is made of recycled cardboard and comes folded flat. It also arrives completely blank, so your kids can color and decorate it however they want. The only problem I can see is my kids would have one shot at decorating it. And with the way my kids color, they would probably want to change it as soon as they were finished.

The Fresko won't be available until early 2009, but they are taking names and emails for pre-orders at Nuvo-Group.com

In the Nursery: John Murphy Collages

elizabeth leach — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 14:00:00 GMT

These whimsical collages by John Murphy are beautifully imaginative. At only $35 each you can afford to buy more than one. Each measures 8 x 10 and is printed on matt archival paper. These are limited edition prints so you won't likely see your neighbor with the same art in their nursery!

Visit John Murphy's website here.

(Via Design Sponge.)

In the Nursery: Cici Art Factory

elizabeth leach — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Cici Art Factory creates original paintings and prints by artist Liz Clay. Her "Lotsa" Paintings use patterns of tiny objects on 8" x 8" canvases to create lotsa impact. Choose from lots and lots of milk bottles, chicks, or frogs painted with chunky paint and brilliant colors. The effect is fantastic and thoroughly modern. Hang them in groups to maximize the effect.

Lotsa Paintings are $90 and, until Dec 31, if you buy two Lotsa paintings you get one for free!

Cici Art Factory Portraits (below photo) create a fantasy world that your child can literally see himself inside. Choose from twelve themes and customize the color hair, eyes, and skin tone of the character in the painting. Each painting depicts whimsical adventures such as: a girl in a forest, a girl with a bird's nest in her hair, a boy as a pirate, a boy riding an elephant, among many others. These paintings are done in acrylics and the paint is thick and textural. Portraits are 16" x 16" and $350.

Check out Cici Art Factory prints (below photo) for more affordable artwork. These prints are colorful and fun with animals surrounded by "X0X0". Each print is 10" x 8" and $19.95.

Cici Art Factory can be found here and at several websites like Fawn & Forest and Modern Tots.

Bargain Hunter: Craft Table

Lisa Mulcahy — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 16:58:00 GMT

You can’t beat this one for the price. Find out how much and where to get it.

Sometimes I think JC Penney gets a bad rap for being one of those staid department stores of the 80s, but I think they’ve done a good job of re-launching itself. Ok enough waxing poetic about my secret liking of JC Penney, this little craft table is a great buy at only $34.99! It has a holder for a roll of drawing paper and I love the cup holders for painting.