After retiring from working 28 years at our local elementary school and having some health issues, I knew I could either curl up and whine about it or make the best of my situation. I have always been exposed to painting, sewing, gardening, knitting and many other forms of arts and crafts from my parents, grandparents, and now my children, so it wasn't hard to go in that direction. But, deciding which medium to choose was the hardest part. I enjoyed them all. I started painting canvas sneakers for my grandchildren, and while fun, it just wasn't it! On one of my nightly walks after dinner, I found this really cool shaped rock and I picked it up and put it in my pocket. When I got home, I was holding it, and I noticed a chip in it. It reminded me of an M & M with a little bite taken out of it. I started doing a little Internet search and saw that others had actually painted some rocks like candy and I thought that might be fun, too. It was, but then I got introduced to the Dot Mandala and was fascinated with them...so many dots, so relaxing and mesmerizing. I painted two at first and didn't really like them. The dots were so small and my 64 year old eyes just weren't having it, but, I persevered. I purchased some magnifying glasses, like a jewelers, LOL, and then some dotting tools, tons of paint, brushes and finally some resin to make them all shiny and smooth. I fell in love. When I was painting, I could just feel the relaxation. I would sit so long that I would be stiff and have to remind myself to get up and walk around every hour or so. When I held the finished rock, each one literally felt so nice in my hand. I decided to paint 100 of them. That was my goal. It took me all summer, but, I did it. Then I wanted to make sure each rock (pebble, as I like to call them) was packaged in a matching organza bag and before you know it, I was considering opening an Etsy Shop. And here I am! I hope you enjoy these little packages of art. They are made from the heart and I send positive vibes to you with each one. May they bring a little Zen and Peace into your life!
UPDATE: I have added gnomes to my shop now and hope that you will find something that you like. I also do holiday ornaments, coasters and other items painted with Dot Mandalas on them. Thank you for being a customer and visiting my shop. Feel free to message me if you have any questions!