Amid the strange, semi-sweet reflection on quarantine times and peak pandemic, I see how handy my trusty craft hobby came back then. 

In any case of not knowing what to do, or solitude, I find these types of projects to be grounding and distracting.

Thrifted Furniture Meets Modge Podge

The base came from Mom and Pop Antiques in Petworth, DC. I made a retro collage for its outer layer, using old magazines from the 60-70s (I believe this one was a combination of Esquire, Playboy and others).

Real Life Into Still Life

Turning real-life objects and images into art has always been a favorite for me - but this became especially relevant to my quarantine times. I adapted versions of everyday items like chocolate bars, olive oil, vegetables, etc. into still life canvas scenes. One decorated a canvas grocery bag, too, and another served as the backsplash to my studio kitchen. (I found and still find Still Here Still Life to be a really inspiring social page.)

Plantiques

I saw this term on a local plant shop (Tillage)’s page; But it really applies to what I was trying to achieve then. I still put plants in antiques, but with a lot less trial and error than before. Now I am well-versed in the fact plants need major drainage, and antiques usually don’t offer this. Adding terra-cotta beads or other forms of moisture control can do the trick for a while. But for best results, eventually, plants usually need to be repotted in more ideal conditions.

Make Customs

These were a pair of Nikes made specially for my little sister, in the theme of her new college and sorority. Angelus leather paints play a big role in custom projects, as well as paint pens.