The Holiday Season is Here!

The Holiday Season is Here!

December first is when my family kicks it into Christmas! The outside lights likely have been on for a few nights already. Hubs would love to turn them on the day after Halloween. I like to keep it closer to December as it makes is more special for me. Maybe it’s all my time spent in retail during my youth but holiday music, the lights and stuff, just December for me. I love the Christmas spirit: the giving, the hope, the love, the cozy wintery evenings spent with my family … the stuff sometimes not as much. Which brings me to some holiday season thoughts… 

 

As you go through these next few weeks remember true gifts are from the heart, which I think is time, especially in this day and age. Family and Friends really want to connect, to spend time together. Gifts are secondary and optional. Yes, of course, I would love for the Holiday shoppe to be empty at the end of December. And that my events are well attended. But the hustle and bustle should not take you or your bank account out. So hugs to you all. Make December and the Holiday season what you need them to be. And when and if you shop, please shop small and local.

This leads me to my website, decorated for the Holidays and with an updated Canada post option. Another shipping option, if you are in Ottawa is our local delivery service, Gopher it. An excellent service, Same Day and Regular are options that I have used often. And have saved me so much time when I have. Of course, studio pick up is another option. And you can always reach out if you want or need another shipping option or if you have any questions.

 Whimsical gift-giving options for you! 

  • My Newest Whimsical Holiday Lady celebrates Hanukkah! She appears on Mugs and Greeting Cards. I have created a Holiday character since 2018! So there is a whole series now. I just glanced over to see them arranged on their shelf and that brings me a lot of joy. A teachers gift, a gift for your bestie, stocking stuffers. I think this line is a perfect gift for many. 🙂 
  • I just released my first 8×10 prints! I am excited to bring this option for art buying/collecting to you. Prints are a wonderful gift, easily shipped and easy to frame with ready made frames. 
  • Original art – smalls, mediums and large! The functional and joyful cloud ladies are perfect gifts. I have a small inventory because this series is getting a total redesign there will not be any more until spring! Ladies in Red are gorgeous pieces each invoking feminine empowerment; youth, zen, joyful, sassy, independence, and flow. A few inky ones are also available.
  • I still have a few stunning brooches! I commissioned these stunning pieces from a local artisan, Kunda art. These beautiful brooches will complete with joy any holiday (or everyday) outfit!
  • Art Merchandise. What does this mean? These products are ones manufactured elsewhere and are printed with my designs. Fun items like notebooks, throw pillow cases and holiday stockings too. You must be aware of deadlines which are fast approaching. For Canada & USA, next deadline December 12 for Express Service only for small orders (1-5 items). For more details, see Art of Where’s Holiday Deadline Blog Post.
  • New Downloadable Colouring books!! I was inspired by a in studio shopper to make my “Let’s Colour” Colouring book available as a download. You will be able to purchase as a download, the book will then be sent to your inbox and then you can print it out. This is only for personal use, not for resale. Makes for a fun last minute holiday activity with your kiddos and family or for you to find some quiet zen time in the hustle and bustle. If you would like a hard copy, the Maker’s Hub in Winchester is the place to go. As of this posting, they have 6 copies, the very last copies. 

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Let’s Colour! Colouring book Release!

Let’s Colour! Colouring book Release!

Back in April 2020, I was inspired and dismayed by the results of COVID lockdowns, I wanted to give others the gift of creative time. I had to think of something accessible for all. And so I began releasing weekly colouring pages and hosting “Let’s Colour” virtual live sessions. First as live sessions on social media then I set up workshop events and hosted through zoom. Who knew we would all become experts at video conferencing! This was my way to connect and give back to the community. I am a big believer in the power of creativity, and love to encourage others to make time for themselves and find some zen in spite of struggles.

The colouring pages were created weekly and were a way for me to set my own creative time. My illustration style tends to be uncomplicated and of course, a fun Whimsical style! Sometimes I would ask for a suggestion for the coming weeks subject matter but luckily inspiration easily finds me. I really enjoyed sharing them each week, feeling the connection with all the comments, and of course, with those that joined my live colouring sessions. So thank you to those who did!

My belief in creativity and self-care at any time made me think. A colouring book would be a natural expansion of this idea! I carefully chose paper that would expect the tools you likely have in your home; crayons and pencil crayons, illustrated a few more pages, and chose a local printer to produce my book. Supporting local is an important part of the studio and of my personal values. Colouring is an easy and accessible activity that embraces creativity and serenity. Simply find crayons, markers, or other supplies you have on hand and away you go! Colour outside of the lines even! Doesn’t matter – this time is for you – and the end result does not need to be a masterpiece. Happy Colouring! 

Please share your in progress or completed colouring pages on social media. Remember to tag @redraspberrystudios and use the hashtag #LetsColourFun.

Intro Price! $8.00  

 

6 in stock

Launched!

Launched!

Welcome to Red Raspberry Studios newly redesigned site! Which now includes an online shop! You will discover the shop with its joyful products for home, gifts and fashion. I will share behind the scenes and news from the studio via the blog. You will see my continuing art series and illustration designs. And of course, there will be stories and inspirations shared. 

This site has been a labour of love and will continue to grow so check back often. If you like to be first in the know for offers, new products and news, sign up for our newsletter

Be Whimsical, Share Your Sparkle, Be Sassy!
Barbi 🙂