Author: Suzanna

Entry 47: Rest In Power, Our King

Hello Crew,

Today is going to be a bit sorrowful. Sometimes things hit people hard, even if you are on the outside looking in.

For those of you who haven’t heard, Friday August 28, 2020, Chadwick Boseman lost his battle with cancer at the age of 43. He never let on that he was struggling with something that was so terminal. I was introduced to Chadwick in Mavel’s Captain America: Civil War as T’Challa, Black Panther. I remember going to the opening weekend with my siblings and we where all so pumped for Black Panther to be on the silver screen. He became a popular topic in our family ever since. To know that he was in pain and struggling so much to hide his troubles, just makes the hurt even stronger. Cancer sucks. I might not have known Chadwick or his family, but I feel the hurt all the same. He made such a difference in world and did not ask for anything in return. He will always be our King. He will live on forever. For those close to Chadwick, I am sorry for the loss and the pain you are feeling. That question of “why?” will hunt you for a while. There is no advice, no poem, no tribute, no books, or no words that is going to give you the answers you seek. Remember the good, the laughs, the calm and his spirit. Mourn the lost, but remember he is not in pain anymore and he is in his next great adventure.

Blessed Be Our King, Our Hero, Our Friend. Rest in Power Our Great King, your mission is done, your lessons been taught, your hearts you healed, and your battles won. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Wakanda Forever

Until we meet again,

Suzanna 🌙🖤

Entry 46: September Update

Hey Crew!

Welcome back! How is everyone doing? Things are coming down to the wire. Don’t forget to register to vote for the November elections. Some States are allowing early voting due to the fact we are going to be relying heavily on mail-in ballots for this election. So look it up and get to it. Change is coming, which side of history are you going to be with? That is all for today’s public announcement.

What is September Going to Bring?

  • Classes start the 3rd
  • The Zodiac Series will be ending on the 19th
  • New main series starts the 26th
  • Learning to juggle the new schedule
  • Continue with set projects
Weekly Schedule (subject to change)

So this is a rough idea of what my weeks are going to look like for like the next 4 years. And things will also fluctuate with how dense each class will be. Basically I am trying to say is that if I seem to be late or posts are shorter than usual, this is why. And I have to remember to keep up with my self care routine and to take breaks through out the day so I don’t get stressed out and lose my marbles. One could argue that I already have lost my marbles, but tomato tomato.

And that is all the major events for September 2020. However, it is still 2020 and things can and most likely will change. Tomorrow’s Fan-Art Tuesday is going to be a tribute to a hero. His death had an impact on me that I am still trying to unpack myself. Remember to stay safe and to stay sane. And remind your loved ones that they are loved and you value them in your life.

Until next time,

Suzanna🌙

Entry 45: Flowing like a Stream

Hey Crew!

Welcome back! How are you all doing? To those hit by Hurricane Laura, I hope that you and your family are safe. I have a dear friend that lives near Baton Rouge, and I was texting her through the whole thing. Mother Nature is not a force to underestimate or undermine. And to all those that are targets during hurricane season, stay safe and listen to the scientists. The season isn’t over yet. 2020 isn’t going out quietly.

Pisces the Flowing Stream

Basic Facts about this Sign:

  • Birth dates: February 19 – March 20
  • Ruling Planet: Neptune
  • Element: Water
  • Symbol: Two Fish
  • Pisces are said to be “not of this realm”. They are artistic and lives in dreamland. They go with the flow. This Sign listens to their instincts and tend to be right.

I have never painted water at night, let alone moving water. I think it was a good challenge for me. Though Neptune kind of is washed out, and I’m don’t dislike it. I can still see the movement and feel the coolness. I can hear the stream and smell the night air. I also mixed up 3 different color shifting paint to give it an interesting shift. What do you guys think?

I think I am finding the right combinations for Adjustments in Photoshop to make the digital picture look just like the physical piece. Hazzah!

And that is all I have for Pisces. Which Sign has been your favorite so far? We only have 3 more Signs left! So close! And this week is going to be the start of classes. That means that things might be posted later than usual for a bit. But I think I have figured out a doable schedule. Come back tomorrow for another episode of “The Adventures of a Floof”. Monday I am going to be giving you guys and overview of things to come in September. Tuesday is Fan-Art Day! I have a cool idea that I hope I can get done in time. So wish me luck! Wednesday is going to be an update about the results of the Arteza Awards 2020. I super nervous to see the results tomorrow. Friday is another episode of #BlackoutFridays on my IG. We are going to be talking about another POC artist in history. Do you have any suggestions? Then next Saturday is one of the last Signs. Can you predict which one it is going to be? And classes start Thursday. Things are catching some momentum! Wish me luck! Remember to stay safe and to stay sane.

Until next time,

Suzanna🌙

Entry 44: Time for a New Look (Part 2)

Hey Crew!

Welcome back! How are you guys doing? 8 more days until classes start! I can’t believe it! Summer is coming to a close, autumn is just around the corner, and time keeps ticking. Time to take a breath and prepare for the future. Let’s do this!

Business Cards, Letterheads, and Resumes

So, after much thought, I have decided that I am not going to be changing my logo for a while. I couldn’t think of anything more simple and more straight forward for me. Maybe at some point down the road I’ll change it.

I keep thinking I need more detail or pazzaz in how everything looks. I am trying to go for a simplistic style so I have to remember less is more. The struggle is real. On top of that I can’t seem to figure out which typography to use for my branding. I need your help!

I find all my cool fonts on dafont.com. They are an open source site for unique fonts. I have been using them for years. But now I have found several different fonts that I like and I can’t decide on which one is the best! These first images you see are business cards. I kind of like the vertical layout. So the side where my logo is is the front, and the side with the stars is the back. Which one do you guys like best? Is there any information missing that you guys like to see on business cards? Which font do you like best?

After we figure out the typography, I’m going to change that on the letterhead and on my resume. How do you guys like the set up for everything else? Does it seem professional? Does it all tie in together? Or is it too much? Let me know what you guys think!

I think that wraps everything up for today. It is going to be a bit before the next update on the branding adventure. So I am game for any and all feedback from you guys! Don’t forget to come back Saturday for the next Zodiac Sign! These Signs are very dreamy and flow with their environment. Can you guess who is next? Remember to stay safe and to stay sane!

Until next time,

Suzanna 🌙

Entry 43: Thoughts about School

Hey Crew!

Welcome back! Sorry, I kind of ghosted you guys yesterday. I had some things to get done before classes start. Today was supposed to be a Fan-Art day, but I couldn’t come up with anything interesting. The struggle bus has been hitting me hard the past couple of days. Hopefully things turn around soon. I just have to remember it is ok to take a break and recharge. Whether or not it is a planned break or your body telling you that you are not doing anything today, listen to your body. Now it is time to start grinding again!

I just wanted to put out there my thoughts about how school is going to go. I figured that you all are tired of hearing about this subject, so I am going to try to make this short and sweet. It is mostly for me own benefit and you guys are just along for the ride. Thank you for your patience.

For starters, I am super excited! I am excited to connect with people. I am excited for the opportunity to grow and learn. I am excited to see where this adventure is going to take me. On the flip side, I am nervous. I am nervous about doing my schooling online. I am nervous that I am not good enough. I am nervous to be seen.

I have a few predictions for this next month. I know time management is going to be the one thing that I am going to struggle with. But I also feel like I am getting right back on that bike and it is going to be smooth sailing. I can see myself having to put my foot down with my family about how I am using my time. That is probably going to be the most difficult part this month. Gotta start crossing my toes and fingers.

At the end of the month I am going to post another check in to see how things are going. Then I am planning just to do a check in at the end of each semester. But if you guys have any questions or what to know how things are going in between, please feel free to ask!

So, this is it for today. I’ll be seeing you guys tomorrow for an update about the new branding changes. I’ll probably be posted late afternoon. I am still fighting with the struggle bus right now. Remember to stay safe and to stay sane.

Until next time,

Suzanna🌙

Entry 42: Time to Rebel

Hey Crew!

Welcome back! How was everyone’s week? Anyone have any good news to share? As for your Captain, it has been the same old, same old. Although, I have been slacking on my self care routine. I have just been grinding so much with my art and prepping for school, I have forgotten to take a moment to breathe. I have tried to convince myself that the hour and a half plus at the gym is enough. But I can tell I am loosing focus and motivation. I need to be better. I have to take care of my mind, body, and soul to be my very best. Don’t forget your self care routine too! We all need some time to disconnect from everything. I think I need to hide my phone from myself. Isn’t there an app that helps with limiting your time on your phone? I need to do some research. I’ll be sure to share what I have found if you are also curious. Now, on to the show!

Aquarius the Rebellious One

Basic Facts about this Sign

  • Birth dates: January 20 – February 18
  • Ruling Planets: Saturn and Uranus
  • Element: Air
  • Symbol: Water Bearer
  • Color: Blue
  • Aquarius is the rebel among the Signs. They hate to conform to the norms. They are free-spirits and hate to be caged. They often are the one that don’t follow mainstream fashion or music.

I sold out. I totally struggled with how to represent Air in this one. So, I caved and made clouds. I mean, it kind of works, right? Like Aquarius is the Water Bearer and clouds carry water all over, so it isn’t too bad…? Figuring out how to represent an invisible force in a still frame visual art piece is a challenge. Also, I didn’t think regular grey clouds would be too interesting, so I made them blue for this Sign. If you also notice in the video, I was struggling with the coloring of Saturn. It started way too much like the Sun. So I had to let that layer dry and go back to it later. The good thing about acrylics, they are very forgiving. I think it ended looking a whole lot better. How do you guys think it all came out?

So we only have 4 more Signs to go! I’m so excited! We have come so far with all the improvements and growth. I am pumped for the next Series. Be sure to follow me on Instagram to see tomorrow’s Sunday’s Special. Monday we are going to talk more in depth about school. Tuesday is another Fan-Art day! I wonder what I’ll do for that? Finally, Wednesday is calling for Part 2 of updating my branding identity. This week looks packed! But I promise I am going to take some time for my self care. I want you to also take some time for yourself. Remember to stay safe and to stay sane.

Until next time,

Suzanna 🌙

Entry 41: Time for a New Look (Part 1)

Hey Crew!

Welcome back! It is Wednesday, that means the week is almost over! 15 more days until classes start! I still can’t believe I am starting my Master’s degree. Who would have thought this was going to be my life in 2020? I sure as hell did not. Things are looking clearer of late. We can only go up from here.

Sometimes Change is Good

Anyways, today we are going to be discussing branding. I think it is time to give my self a make over. I have to be like the river and change my flow with the land around me. So, it is time to glow up. This is most likely take multiple parts to go through everything and why it is important. And for today I am just going to be outlining what is to come.

Creating a memorable branding for yourself is key on connecting to your audience. You want something to be like, “I know that company/artist/person, they do amazing work!” Take companies like Nike(1) or Doritos(2), you can spot their products anywhere. They don’t even need to tell you who they are, all you need is a simple logo. And it is good to update your branding every few years to keep with up with the times. For example take Apple’s(3) branding. It started out as this complex illustration and now is this very simple and straight forward logo that you know what brand it is just by seeing the apple. And that is my goal. I think it is time that my Angry Floof gets an upgrade.

Here are the new elements for a brand launch that I will be making:

  • Logo
  • Business card
  • Mailers
  • Leave behinds
  • Packaging
  • Letter head
  • Portfolio (a physical booklet)
  • Resume
  • Website

I am so ready for this make over. I hope you guys are going to be pumped for the glow up. I’ll be going over each piece with you once it is created. So stick around a while, things are starting to get interesting. Be sure to keep up with the Arteza Awards process over on my Instagram. We have 5 days until the deadline! I am super pumped and nervous. This #BlackoutFridays is going to showcase another modern day POC. Who do you think it is going to be about this time? Then on Saturday our week begins with a new Air Sign. Saturn is getting a double feature! Remember to stay safe and to stay sane.

Until next time,

Suzanna 🌙

Entry 40: In the Name of the Moon!

Hey Crew!

Welcome back! How are you doing? Hopefully nothing too crazy has happened lately. I think we all need a vacation and a peace of mind. The world just seems to become a bigger and bigger dumpster fire everyday it seems. I have been listening to music that I loved when I was younger. A good dose of nostalgia is comforting. What was in your playlist back when life was simpler for you? I’ll be posting my list over on Pirate Games later today. Maybe we can compare notes?

My Dreams of the Moon

“I am Sailor Moon, champion of justice! On behalf of the Moon, I will right wrongs and triumph over evil, and that means you!”

Sailor Moon

Speaking of nostalgia, I’d like to introduce you to the very first obsession and love, Sailor Moon. If you have no idea what I am talking about… //cricket cricket//… I suggest you take a moment and go educate yourself. I can’t… can’t even. Anyway. for those who know, you know the feels I am talking about. I grew up with the 90s Sailor Moon and boy did that have an impact on my life. I always have dreamed to become a Sailor Scout and protect peace and love and the moon. Usagi always felt real to me, you know? She was the first character that hit a level of realness that I can’t even begin to explain. As corny as it sounds, I could see myself in her. I think that that is the magic of character design and connection that the viewer and artist makes. So it just seemed fitting to make my next Fan-Art piece about Sailor Moon.

References

For this I used Princess Serenity as my model. I wanted to challenge myself and push my knowledge of the Art Deco style. I took pointers from the illustrator Erté. In this first image that you are seeing, these were the main reference material that I used to create my piece. “You are only as good as your references are.” Professor Barclay. I obviously looked at many pieces of Erté’s work to get a feel for what I should do for the outfit and details. But I was mostly captivated by “The Queen of the Night” illustration he did. I thought it was very fitting for Sailor Moon.

I am so very proud about how this turned out. Like it is so clean and well polished. This mixture of Art Deco and Sailor Moon turned out so smooth. This is by far my most favorite illustration I have ever done. I think I am figuring my artistic style. What do you guys think? I am still blown away.

That concludes this story time. I can’t even get over how well I did. Like I am super critical about my own work, but I can’t see anything wrong with it. //Mind blown// Things can get keep going up from here, right? Check in tomorrow for a peek behind the scenes. Things are going to be looking a bit different around here soon. So stick around awhile! Remember to stay safe and to stay sane.

Until next time,

Suzanna 🌙

Want to know more about Erté? Check these links out:

How Erté Shaped Art Deco Design and Style

https://www.erte.us/bio.html

https://musings-on-art.org/erte

Entry 39: It’s a State of Mind

Hey Crew!

Welcome back! How are you guys been doing? We are in the last two weeks of August already. I have no idea where the time is going. Someone go tell Father Time to slow his roll. Sweet, buttery, milk biscuits it feels like there is no time left. The struggle. I have a love/hate relationship with time. The worst invention in human history is the keeping record of time. Anyways, sorry for the negative thought train, lets get back to the show.

Mind Over Matter

You all know I am terrible at keeping a schedule. Luckily, because of corona, I have had no 9-5 and a lot of free time. But I am still struggling on procrastination and productivity. It is a curse that I have always had, because I convinced myself that I make better work when I have no time to play around with things. I can’t keep doing that. I can’t keep waiting til the last minute and barely get by. That is not a good work ethic. So, I have to change that mind set.

It takes 28 days to form a new habit. I can’t wish for things to change over night, and I know that. I have to convince myself that this is my new 9-5. I maybe at home and have a ton of distractions, but I have to change that. With school work coming and possible client work in the future, I can’t waste any time. I want my art career not an art hobby.

In other words, I have to really schedule my days out. I have to be consistent and stick to my schedule like super glue. I should probably get a planner that breaks things down to the way I want it. For my brain, I can’t rely on digital calendars and schedules. For some reason, I forget things way easier and never look for my schedule on my phone. There is something about handwriting and a physical book that makes everything click.

After getting a planner, I am going to seriously let my family and friends know that they can’t reach during the hours of X and Y. I have to treat this like a job now. I can’t just get up and go help do chores or go out and about whenever something comes up. Just cause I am home doesn’t mean I have time to do anything else. I have to be treated like I am away at a job and can’t leave just cause. Please respect that of me.

So it is going to be a mind over matter type of deal. It is going to be hard for just me, myself and I to get used to things, and I am going to need the people in my life to respect that. I am at work. I am doing my job. Things can wait. My new mantra is “I am at work, I will get to have fun after the day’s work”. I just have to train my brain into recognizing that. It takes 28 days to form a new habit. I can do this. This is my dream. This is what I want out of life. This is my career. This is what I love to do. I can do this.

Thank you for listening to my little rant. I am so glad you guys are here with me. You keep me going and plowing through. Thank you. Please stop by tomorrow for the next Fan-Art day. You are going to see what made me fall in love with the moon. See you all then! Remember to stay safe and to stay sane.

Until next time,

Suzanna 🌙

Entry 38: Time to Leap into the Sea

Hey Crew!

Welcome back! How are you guys doing? So I made a new goal for myself to read at least 1 book per month. I want to make sure that I am taking some time to myself just to unwind. If you guys want to know what I am currently reading, check out Pirate Games. We can start a little book club. I think that would be too cute. But anyways, on with the show!

The Driven Capricorn

Basic facts about this Sign:

  • Birth dates: December 22 – January 19
  • Ruling Planet: Saturn
  • Element: Earth
  • Symbol: Sea Goat
  • These Signs are super driven, responsible, and practical. However, these Signs can be super insecure. So be kind to your Capricorns, sometimes they just need a little pep talk to remember how awesome they are.

So as you can tell, I was playing around with camera angles while filming. Do you think it is too much or not enough? I am still new to filming and I thank you bearing with me as I figure it all out. Anyway, Capricorns are represented by Sea-Goats… Why and how does that make any sense? Even though they are an Earth element, I knew I had to have the sea in the piece some where. And then I remember goats can be found climbing cliff faces and BAM idea! This is the first time that my cliffs actually look like cliffs and all I can say is: Art is Magical. What do you think of the overall piece?

Did you see where I put the hidden Sign? //sneaky-sneaky//

Can you guys believe we are over the halfway point for the Zodiacs!? Holy cow! Our next Sign is a spontaneous barrel of water. HAHAHA… I crack myself up! Don’t forget to check out my IG for updates on the Arteza Awards project and for tomorrow’s Comic Sunday. See you Monday when we discuss mind over matter and what that means as an artist. Remember to stay safe and to stay sane.

Until next time,

Suzanna 🌙