Meraki (may-rah-kee, verb, Greek): to do something with soul, creativity or love; to put something of yourself in your work.
Susan (one4joy) texted me a picture last week of a coffee shop near her by that name. We both like words and Meraki is a pretty interesting one. I challenged her to join me in creating a card based on that word and we chose today's IC for that. She uploaded her card this morning; I'm late.
Another title for my card would be 'The Key to My Happiness: Do Art or Die.' Yesterday, during my play with some new products and gel plate, I made some new backgrounds. I chose one to use today, adding a lot of metallic elements, including an old, old, old key that I have no idea why I have. I suspect it was in my grandparent's home or maybe my parent's. It's been sitting on my work desk and I said to myself, 'darn it, Jean, use that key today or else.' I colored it with AI and added some lime colored ep (gift from Susan). Dictionary page and lace is from my grandparent's home. In recognition of the coffee shop, I cut some corners from a gel print I did a while ago that has some granulated instant coffee mixed into the sprays. And, of course, I had to do a little Zentangle in the corners because that is who I am.
I always love seeing how we all 'meraki.' What is your favorite way to do that?It's a verb, so it means 'take action!' I know, I'm preaching to the choir.
Date: Saturday, September 21, 2019 GMT Views: 619
Favorited:3
Very cool! I saw Susan's card earlier and couldn't wait to see who was going to post the other Meraki card! Your key is so beautiful! I love the circles in the background. Very fun card! Great challenge!
Registered: November 7, 2006 Location: Willamette Valley Oregon Posts: 34503
Sat, Sep 21, 2019 @ 4:51 PM
oh, my goodness! Outstanding...and SO {u}! Jean, you had me at your title. Not only are you artful with the shiny things, old stuff, new stuff, spices, espresso powder, textiles, BUT with your words 2! Marvelous collage representing who you are as an ARTISTE! Love the old lace from your grandparents house...love the dictionary pages tying the Key with the Keys (I'd winter there) and eat Key Lime pie every day.
Way to Art, bfnm. And waiting for that NEXT word...
------------------------------ Susan~~~One4Joydaily I'm a FAN CLUB member, U? MY GALLERYof visual Delights MY BLOG
Registered: July 9, 2008 Location: Stars Fell on Alabama Posts: 74743
Sat, Sep 21, 2019 @ 4:52 PM
This card is so 'you'. I just knew it was you that Susan spoke of doing your own challenge together and here you are. Love your mixed media and that wonderful key that probably belonged to someone in your family very close to you. I know you two put your heart and soul into your cards.
------------------------------ My Blog---My Gallery---My PinterestI'm a Punchkateer! (Prez) FOREVERDirty Dozen Alumni2014 CAS Spring DT--- Inspiration Challenge Co- Hostess 12/02/17-12/28/19 Watercolor Wednesday Design Team Hebrews 13:2Brenda
Registered: May 26, 2015 Location: Oregon Posts: 5532
Sat, Sep 21, 2019 @ 6:26 PM
Wild and Wonderful! You might be interested in my comment on Susan's card. I find it amazing that your challenge to each other brought forth more of a resemblance than just the word meraki. They both go deep and honor your muses.
Splitcoast Dirty Dozen Splitcoast Challenge Hostess Proud Fan Club Member
Registered: January 27, 2010 Location: Southern Ontario, Canada Posts: 51725
Sat, Sep 21, 2019 @ 6:35 PM
This is a stunning piece of art Jean. I love the details, including your stunning gelli arts background. I have things ready to do some gelli art - it is finding the time that is the problem.
Registered: September 3, 2007 Location: native Texan living in extreme N. GA Posts: 73387
Sun, Sep 22, 2019 @ 8:03 AM
Ah ha! So you're the other half of the meraki duo. Love your vintage take on it & that old key is fabulous. I talk to myself all the time. DH asked me why I was doing that the other day. I said, "because sometimes I need expert advice".
Registered: December 4, 2010 Location: Minnesota Posts: 16610
Sun, Sep 22, 2019 @ 2:20 PM
I am gobsmacked Jean! This is OUTSTANDING and so fun too! I enjoy your gorgeous cards as much as I enjoy your write-ups - so fun! I love how you used this old key on your card and the fun placement of letterst too. Very impressive my friend! ~Karen.
Registered: June 4, 2009 Location: Deatsville, Alabama Posts: 82297
Sun, Sep 22, 2019 @ 4:04 PM
Beautiful bg, Jean. Super elements, thought process, and Jean touches. Fab!!! Hugz
------------------------------ Nancy Williams - Hope your day is Spirit-filled and ink-filled (in that order)!DRS Designs-DT, Punchkateerforever, Dirty Dozen Alumni