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Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Locales Tropicales


Hello, dear friends! How is your day going? We're steadily plowing our way through winter. It's nice to think that the worst is over for those of you who live in colder climates. We've been granted a reprieve from cooler weather this year. Charleston temperatures have been mainly in the 70's with plentiful sunshine. In the next week or two we should be seeing tulips and all of those long awaited tell-tale signs of spring. 

It's time for a bright new challenge at The Frilly and Funkie Blog! Cec is our hostess for the next two weeks with the following guidelines: It is winter and that means snow and cold in so many places so let's head to the tropics. Create any vintage or shabby chic project that will make us feel warm - think lots of sunshine, bright colours, flora and fauna and even animals hiding in the rain forest.

At the end of the challenge the team will choose their top four picks. Our first place winner will be invited to join us in a Guest DT spot at The Frilly and Funkie Blog . Three additional talented participants will receive badges to display on their blogs. Everyone who enters and adheres to the challenge guidelines will be entered into a drawing to win a $25 spending spree at The Funkie Junkie Boutique! For entry specifics and inspiration from my fabulous teammates just click on the blog link above. 


Because I live in a well preserved colonial city with a mild, subtropical climate, my take on this week's palette may be a bit different from others. Our state tree is the Palmetto and our streets are lined with Palms, just as you would expect. However, Charleston's immense mansions boast pastels and subdued colors. Think whites, creams, pinks, and pale blues. When I think of the tropics my mind goes to dimity, detailed iron work, lush gardens, Charleston single houses with their long side porches, and the ladies who to this very day weave sweet grass baskets along the streets of Charleston. 

I decided the best way to stick with the challenge would be to create a project that brings to mind the citrus fruits grown here and in other tropical regions. 'Back in the day,' fruit vendors meandered through Charleston neighborhoods calling out their wares for all to hear. In my mind's eye (or ear) I can almost hear them calling out their carts filled with lemons and limes.  
   

You'll find distressed layers, stitching, and handmade tropical styled flowers in greens and yellows. The die cut Tim Holtz embellishments reflect the iron work patterns that are prevalent here.  


Of course, I included a twine bow as well as a bit of burlap which was a close as I could get to rattan. 

A splattering of Tim Holtz Peeled Paint Distress Stain is added for additional intensity of color.   




Thank you for being with me on this beautiful day. It's time to turn the challenge over to your capable hands. The best part of the challenge is seeing the marvels you create in your craft rooms. May your week be filled with the presence of those you love and many, many blessings!  

Hugs, 



12 comments:

  1. Nancy I am feeling the heat here with the beautiful warm yellow tones. Fabulous card and gorgeous flowers and design!

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  2. Gorgeous card, Nancy! Love those flowers! I am not anxious to see the winter go--I don't like heat and humidity!

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  3. Love the lemony yellow tones and the splatters of peeled paint! What lush imagery you've woven into this clever card!

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  4. Wow. ..Nancy had to pop back here to tell you how beautiful this card is! Unusual color tones from you. ..I can smell the lime!

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  5. Nancy, what a ray of sunshine this is indeed! I love the green splashes, the lovely punched strips and your gorgeous yellow blossoms. Happy belated Valentine's Day, Autumn

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  6. So gorgeously done!! Bright and sunny for our dreary days!

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  7. What a fabulous card and those flowers are spectacular! I am certainly ready for some brighter days…as long as it doesn't get too hot! Yellow days are better than orange or red!! Hugs, Chrisx

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  8. Absolutely stunning flowers Nancy and I love that zing of citrus - all helped by your wonderful description of your experiences of Spring in Charleston. It sounds fabulous there and would be wonderful to visit someday xx

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  9. This is stunning Nancy! I love love love all the textures and layers. Really fantastic.

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  10. how totally gorgeous!!! beautifully done.
    TFS Karen

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  11. What a beautiful, warm, piece of art, love all the different elements coming together here!

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