Collage with No Name

Earlier this year, I created a collage/assemblage that I’ve been quietly sitting with ever since. Maybe it’s because I’m not quite ready to let it go. Is it the little birdhouse or the monarch butterflies (left over after creating this piece) that feel especially dear to me? 

I hope that sharing it here will help me move forward. Thanks for listening! 🦋

Inspiration Everywhere

As mentioned last month, I am in a short “incubation phase” of gathering inspiration, exploring ideas, and researching random themes found off the beaten path. Here are a few topics I've come across this month. 

Reverse Bucket List
Your bucket list probably includes all the dreams and experiences you hope to add to your life. But what if happiness isn’t about adding more, but letting go? Consider the reverse bucket list which invites you to think about the habits, obligations, and clutter that no longer serves you. 💙

 

When asked about my “Doorway” collage this week, I mentioned that it was loosely inspired by the paths on the board game Candy Land. Many of us played the game as youngsters, and it got me thinking about how long the game has been around. Diving down the rabbit hole, I came across this video exploring the origin of the game. 🍭

 

I share the love of a quiet cemetery with many of you. They can be beautiful spaces to both mourn and celebrate the lives of those who have passed. If you have ever noticed recurring symbols on headstones and wondered what they mean, here is a guide to help decode some of the most common imagery. 🌹

 

If you have suggestions for topics, products, or media you’d like to see me explore, I’d love to hear them! You can reach me at Carmen@StrangeFarmGirl.com.

wicked Plant Art Walk & More

As promised last month, here are views of my Wicked Plant Art exhibits in three locations across Detroit Lakes, MN for those who can't see it in person. 

 

1) All 22 original mixed media collages in the collection can be seen at the Becker County Museum (714 Summit Avenue). 

2) Click on the image below to take the Wicked Plant Art Walk along the Aspen Overlook Trail in Ortenstone Gardens & Sculpture Park. There you'll see large scale digital reproductions of the original collages.  

3) You can also find select canvas prints at Bluebird Books (813 Washington Avenue). 

Thanks again to Project 412, Becker County Museum, and Bluebird Books for partnering with me on this exhibit which runs through January 15, 2026. 🌿

I'd love to hear about it and include it in a future update. 

 

I will reply back or answer it in a future update. 

 

Drop me an e-mail at Carmen@StrangeFarmGirl.com.

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Until next time, all the best to you!