Miss Hilton Ink

Inspired

2012-01-15T14:40:00.000-08:00

I want this

Malice In Underland

And This

Ravings and Illustrations by Bamcat

<3 This - Egene Koo, Being Alone 2011

I WILL do this tomorrow!

Xmas Giftage and Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T15:43:00.000-08:00

Whittards Spotty Cup and Saucer

YUM!

Kurt Geiger Boots.

A Itunes voucher, with which I will buy this

Fashionology Skull Bangle

Benefit Glam Set

Fashionology Necklace

I feel so lucky. I have some gorgeous items and some very special friends and family. Some dearly missed.

3 New Years resolutions:

1. Blog more! (and sort website *coming soon*)

2. Use my Lumix G1 camera more. (I bought me and a friend a DSLR session in Bham to start this off in Jan)

3. Be Happier

I also as not a resolution, more a decision will be moving out again early this year and go to estate agents and do it all properly so I don't end up back at home in a years time :s and new job prospects? and New Burlesque show opportunities :D and more progress towards an MA....... Hopefully.

I hope you all behaved over New Year and Xmas ;)

Start as you mean to go on xx

Books and Bits

2011-10-15T14:21:00.000-07:00

I have just had a kinda eureka moment. Something that fills you with energy even though you're tired and fills you with ideas that you cant write down fast enough. After a grueling 12 hr day at work I have come home and decided to focus on how my work can work for me. As you may have seen a few posts ago, I want to be an art therapist. I have been working for young people with autism teaching life skills for 3 years now so with my fine art degree background I am going to try and make both worlds collide. I have joined an activity committee and have sat down tonight with an "Expressive Arts Activity Book" to get some ideas of projects.

I think first of all i need a kit. The BASIC kit needs to contain:

Collage images (words, magazines, textures, colours)
Paper (lots of)
Pens (Millions of)
Glue (sticks and PVA)
exciting things! Stickers, glitter ribbon etc etc

So I have text my colleagues and friends and told them I am from now on collecting images and words from magazines on any theme. Travel, animals, children, words, photos and they can give them to me or leave them for me at work. The book suggests that I should cut these out myself so that participants with less dexterity can still join in. This is a great idea and I pile of images can be so inspiring! Also the book suggests as an ice breaker to make image cards, plain card with an image stuck on it so that it can be used as a basis for a piece of work for those daunted by an empty page. Genius! Once I have a good collage selection I will make a whole heap of these and carry them with me.

Sessions I could do that I have thought of include:

Make a city (drawer on the walls covered in paper, drawer around people and use collage)
Book making (sketch books, story books, concertina books...)
Drawing and Painting to music (Even a live band)
Paper mache (bowls, masks etc)
Drawing on the floor (covered in paper, hands knees and feet)
Then there is the obvious, cards masks etc etc
Still Life Drawing, for the more high functioning and arty types amongst them who get the bug... Draw their favorite items.

So I have just ran round my room like a nutter sacrificing items of mine that I have collected to use in collage, examples of books I have made (prototypes) and generally great things. Tissue, postcards, adverts and collage material. I have a carrier bag full of sacrificed materials and it feels good. Next step, go and buy a big box to keep it all in and maybe research book making activities...........

Excited x)

Greece - Roadside Shrines

2011-09-16T13:23:00.000-07:00

So, I've just had a lovely week of all inclusive wonderfulness and 30odd degree heat (LUSH!) but I am now back and don't worry my little shrine obsession didn't go very far. I remember many years ago when I visited Greece being fascinated by these often ornate little boxes by the side of the road. Co-incidentally I had decided to E-mail a friend of mine who I met when I was last in Greece about these objects for some more information.

She informed me they were memorials for people who had died and were often tended to by family members lighting candles and sometimes even writing letters. The boxes seemed to be full of images of Byzantine Icons (Saints as I understand it) and personal items. I felt a bit weird about photographing them so I saw far more than I photographed. As you can imagine they're all placed in dangerous places as they are accident sites so not the easiest things to get to and when they were in towns I was worried about seeming disrespectful by the local community with less than no knowledge of Greek!
So these are the images I have collected of a few I saw.

This was the closest memorial to my hotel on the side of a busy road. As you can see there are various images of byzantine icons and burners to be lit by relatives or friends. The plastic bottles often contained oil or flammable substances to fuel a flame.

This second example seemed a lot more personal to me with less bought for purpose items and was far more accessible so an enclosed front had been included. This was less ornate in appearance.

There were many many examples that I drive past or saw at a distance that I just think are beautiful and intriguing items that I would love to know more about. There were some great shops in Rhethymnon which was the nearest town to where I was staying selling fab Byzantine items which I think would be for the purpose of these shrines. I bought some and did get some very strange looks lol When I get chance in natural light I will put them on here to look at. There were also large roadside shops selling the empty memorial boxes in all shapes colours and sizes in brick and wood mostly. They looked very grand.

I also visited a Monastery in Margarites where I lit a candle for my late father and enjoyed the beautiful imagery on the walls.

I have never been particularly religious myself but have a particular interest in religious imagery and I have some old bibles mostly for their history and the messages to love ones inside the front covers always intrigue me. It seems to me that the memorials by the roadside are stunning examples of memorials and tributes to a love one. It struck me how they didn't seem at all depressing or tampered with in any way by the roadside. Unfortunately, such a think in Britain would probably be vandalised. Their is a great sense of respect in the Greek culture and this is a ritual as part of their nationality that I greatly admire.

I wish to learn a bit more about the Byzantine icons and what a few of them mean and I will post some of my icon pieces on here soon.

x

Wiki-inked

2011-09-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

A shrine (Latin: scrinium "case or chest for books or papers"; Old French: escrin "box or case")^[1] is a holy or sacred place, which is dedicated to a specific deity, ancestor, hero, martyr, saint, daemon or similar figure of awe and respect, at which they are venerated or worshipped. Shrines often contain idols, relics, or other such objects associated with the figure being venerated.^[2] A shrine at which votive offerings are made is called an altar. Shrines are found in many of the world's religions, including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Wicca, Chinese folk religion and Shinto, as well as in secular and non-religious settings such as a war memorial.^[3] Shrines can be found in various settings, such as churches, temples, cemeteries, or in the home, although portable shrines are also found in some cultures.^[4]

A nicho is an object of Latin American folk art. Nichos are made from mixed media and traditionally combine elements from Roman Catholicism, mestizo spirituality, and popular culture. Characteristically "nicho" objects have different names throughout Central and South America: they may be called retablo or by other local names. Also see article onPeruvian Retablos, a style that encompasses several different portable forms not discussed here.

In South America, it is common to see decorative boxes called "nichos" set upon tables and pedestals to display religious icons. These boxes may serve as a religious altar (to mark a significant religious event) or to honor a patron saint.

Nicho art originated as a popular adaptation of the Roman Catholic retablo tradition of painting patron saints on wood or tin. Unlike the large, flat panels of retablo, nichos are small and built in shadow box style. Common structural conventions include hinged doors, carved borders, and multiple panels. Within the box there is a key object or central figure for whose honor or memory the nicho has been created. Nichos are usually painted with striking colors, often contrasting bright and dark, and tend towards garish. In addition to painted designs, nichos are decorated with all variety of images and objects from religious and popular culture, especially depictions of the Virgin Mary, saints, the sacred heart, figures from loteria, Dia de los Muertos characters and objects, and folk heroes.

Quick research on Wikipedia.

Quirky Little things I own

2011-09-05T09:50:00.000-07:00

Hewo,

Well I'm in the bat cave and I'm hungover so I thought Id get my blog on and let you know about some quirky kewl bits and bobs I've come across recently. Some of which I have NO idea what to do with. My Aunt and her fiancee run a Medieval Festival in Lanark which in turn means they go to all sorts of fairs and trade shows and have fab old authentic traders that every so often have great pieces of kit for you're average joe!

Rosalind found me these buttons from Tinkers Tailor. Which I have decided I'm going to find maybe an old black cardie of mine or raid the charity shops and find a cardie and substitute these buttons in. They will look awesome. I was also thinking maybe they could be used in a little Nicho or Shrine memorial box. What do you think?

23x16mm 60pence each
Pewter large Skull Buttons

Next we have some stuff purchased in Angel Islington vintage market some time ago. More through intrigue and imagery than anything.

A Jesus Tag - Got damaged in transit on my way home :(

Really liked the imagery on this tag. Wording says, "*I Will Bless Every Place* Where A Picture Of My Heart Shall Be Set Up And Honoured" Just thought it was interesting could be used in collage.

From the same stall I bought

Three slides of diagrams. As some of you may know ~I have a morbid fascination with anatomy and old medical books and I purchased these slides due to an echo of anatomical diagrams within my books. They are however diagrams of parts of plants. I rooted through a whole box and picked these three due to similarities with male and female body parts :) See Close ups below.

All of the above (3 slides AND the Jesus tag) cost me £9. Which i thought was a bargain. I want to try and scan and enlarge and print the images and maybe collage or draw over?

Last but not least my recent purchase from the Worcester Flea which is a small vintage market in the town centre.

As you may have seen in my previous posts I've been thinking about new small art projects and one of the themes I'm going to look at is shrines and memorials. I have been thinking about small portable pieces of art that can be carried by a person than are filled with mixed media images to remind of beliefs and strength and past memories.

I found this hinged tin at the Flea for the bargain price of £8. Its a very old toffee tin. I like the way its worn a bit on the front. The hinge fits well and its a snug closure. I was thinking of maybe lining this and filling it with some contents a bit like a collage with a 3D centre piece possibly or maybe a photograph?

Thats all for now. I will post some research into shrines and memorials soon.

Thoughts and general ramblings

2011-09-02T16:00:00.000-07:00

I've decided (I've been thinking about this for a really long time but really tonight has made me certain) that from this September i.e NOW, I will start working towards many little arty projects some through work, to make myself more prepared to apply for Art Therapy next September 2012. I turn 26 at the end of this month (this is not a midlife crisis lol) and when I originally graduated from DMU in Fine Art in 2008 I applied to study Art Therapy at Derby university. I was told at the time that I was too young in my feedback and I would be more prepared come 25 or so. Although I did not necessarily agree at the time I could see where they were coming from. A lot of the other applicants were older than me (considerably in some cases) and had a lot of work experience. Although coming from a degree I was strong in my Art background and had a consistent body of work. Since this set back I have almost scrapped the idea, due to the fact that in full time work (48hrs a week 12hr shifts) I have struggled to see how I can create conceptual work to a consistent standard in my spare time whilst allowing myself down time also (needed!). I have decided its time to work towards it and allowing myself a year in which to do so is plenty of time to prepare and also raise some effort in funds towards this.

The universities that offered this course when I applied were few and more have probably taken on the course since. SO, as well as tattoo flash type art work (that I enjoy and have an interest in but have not much substance behind them) I will be doing small projects covering varied periods of time, some involving the service users that I support at work. Thus providing a varied base of work over a year long period.

This is the theory anyway :S I have put together a brief photography project through work fairly recently for the young people to have cameras and take pictures that they want to take to see what we get and using the results to do collage and drawing work from. (I will post the full brief further down the line) I have had a positive response from staff and young people who want to take part (I should say I work with 16-25s with Autism and challenging behavior) and am waiting on some disposable cameras being ordered. I have chosen to do it this way to remove any materialistic value from the camera to encourage it to be taken and carried more freely with them. Also limiting the exposures and making it more personal to them, they can be left with complete responsibility of the camera.

Anyway after this epiphany (caused by a small amount of alcohol and a colleague leaving for pastures new in "that lahndin"). I shall start to think of themes and areas of interest I can work on through photography research, pen, ink and collage. Its quite exciting. I also have friends setting up life drawing in the area which I will think about going to and some tattoo/pen and ink work thats been on the back burner for a while which needs finishing so time to get off my ass I think...............

-END-

x

Also I will be blogging my way through all this don't you worry. Second Burlesque show on Sunday too! Miss Hilton Presents is going well :D

Back in Black

2011-08-06T15:12:00.000-07:00

Jeepers. I've been busy. The highlights and the Low lights follow.

I have moved.... I have got better Internet and am Therefore back trading again on Etsy.com click HERE to check out my wares in a tattoo ink original art kinda way.

Also I now promote Burlesque nights in the local area of Worcestershire too! I decided I wasn't busy enough doing painting in my spare time and working full time so I'm now doing bi-monthly burlesque shows in Worcester at the Pig and Drum in Lowesmoor. My first show at the art house in July was a great success. I compare them myself and bring all the great acts that I have come across to the masses (of the home counties lol) So that's exciting too!

Poster by Tilly Mints Graphics

If you are interested in finding out more head to my Face Book page for Miss Hilton Presents

I'm hoping to do some act reviews in the next coming weeks from my show and also an offer Sunday - Sunday on my original art works now my shop is up and running. So stay tuned!

I also in the next few weeks have Hen nights, Weddings and Medieval Festivals, so never a dull moment!

Me and Rooster my DJ

I'm on Twitter @misshiltonink
Lowlights - Brixton Urban art was a washout! Absolutely threw it down so I was glad I'd hedged my bets and only done one day. Still a good weekend!

In other news my sister has started to make vintage cake stands from odd crockery so I should blog about those soon too (we are a clever pair!).

Art work soon to be going up in my new venue and Burlesque classes on the cards? Stay tuned :) x

London Burlesque Festival 2011 - Highlights

2011-05-07T13:11:00.000-07:00

What a weekend I've had! What a bank holiday indeed. LBF 2011 finally came around and as promised it was a blast.

I was going to do reviews of the all the shows I had seen but really and truly Ive decided to stick to the best parts due to the fact Ive got a lot to say about some acts and not much to say about others (I'm sure you know what I mean ;) ). I saw 4 Shows in a whistlestop tour of London's venues in Madame Jojos, Bush Theatre in Shepherds Bush and The Coronette in Elephant and Castle.

British Bombshells

There were some very entertaining acts for the first of my many shows in the upcoming week and although I had every intention of avoiding the royal wedding there were the first of many wedding/royal britannia themed acts to be had. Compere Lady Beau Peep was entertaining introducing such acts as Kate Middleton,(Obviously not but quite a good likeness!) otherwise known as Agent Lynch.

Kate Middleton (Agent Lynch)

Closely followed by a Royal Guard in the form of Alli Katte with a rather impressive weapon! I must admit at this point that I did stop taking photos at a fairly early stage due to the intimate nature of the venue and low lighting the photos didn't appear to be of a very legible quality although now I have then on my laptop they're nearly not as bad as I thought (But still not great).

Eliza DeLite was incredible. I loved the concept of a coal miner bored of working wanting the glamorous life with diamonds and pearls. The outfit was very impressive and I know she stitched a lot of it on herself. It was a nerve wracking time for us all knowing her as we did and knowing Momma DeLite was in the audience but it has to be said (If i didn't say it before) she did the Leicester Demon Belles proud! she was without doubt one of the most impressive acts and dare I say some of the other acts did leave a lot to be desired.

Eliza DeLite - On the big day

This show prompted a mass discussion between the Belles and I about facial expressions as some seemed to be lacking any reality and just doing what they felt they should do. Buuuut I'm all for a bit of cheesy cheescake.

Twisted Cabaret

Tbh I was expecting more from this show. I'm not sure if its because they were leading me up a blind path with the term twisted although at times it really wasn't watchable! The compere I thought was really quite good a rockabilly guy by the name of Benjamin Louche, quite dark and quite funny. I particularly liked the song about getting fucked up! Low points, a man with his mohawk on fire (that smell was WRONG) and a man snorting a condom through his sinus cavity (that I could and SHOULD have gone the rest of my life without seeing!) but there were also some acts that were incredible. The best of which had to include the following 2:

Vivi Valentine

Did a stunning dance in an amazing 300 Esq costume as a high priestess with Romanesque theme. General glamour and hypnotism awaited the audience and then from nowhere there was water, poured out of urns by loyal subjects and then......*spoiler* she threw a large amount of gold glitter into the air and walked through it coating herself. It was a fantastic show with equal focus on costume and talent. One of the best things all week.

Trixie Tassels

Well, I don't have much to say about this one apart from, if you thought fire eating and general fire dancing was impressive check out flaming nipple tassels. Never seen anything like that. Considering a lot of girls with tassels didn't do a lot with them, this certainly made up for it! Awesome.

NewComers Competition

La Fille

http://www.lafilledamnee.com

I have to say that this was the most delicate and emotive of all the acts in this show. It was sooo fragile and bought back childhood memories to me of the wind up jewellery boxes that used to play a song to you as a ballerina twirled around and round. This was definitely the best entrance and exit being static both times and placed and removed off stage by a helper in a fireman's lift with rigid shapes much like a mannequin. This act cant help but give you goosebumps and wasn't your average burlesque act.

Aurora Galore

Photo Taken From: http://www.auroragalore.com

This lady was breathtakingly bold. Although impressive to watch I can see why she (narrowly I'm sure) missed out on taking away an award due to the fact that the act was a fan dance involving impressive fan moves, some incredible lighting but she was however already in pasties and pants from the beginning. The act tho was really really impressive, those fans aren't light but she made it look effortless but FIERCE! The rock edge in the music and black outfit was very much my thing. And would you believe matching thong and shoes! Wowzers. As the final act to this show was a very fitting climax.

Tank

Photo taken from: http://www.tanakaro.com

If I had to pick one thing to see again every day for the rest of my life it would be this gorgeous thing. Her name is Tank, and I was slightly dubious when I heard the name however the display was so skilled, controlled and generally brilliant i forgot this almost instantly. I have seen aerial acts perform before but there is something so captivating about this lady. If aerial doesn't impress you (are you insane) but not only does she do aerial she also managed along with all the acrobatics to do a very good job at striptease down to Pasties. She's very striking in pose and look, her costume was really beautiful. I cant tell you enough how stupidly talented this woman is. If you ever get the chance to see her snap it up quick. She's an international treasure.
In general all of the newcomers did a fab job there was no hiding behind expensive costumes, pure talent.

All in all I'm sure you can see by my gushing review that amongst the good and the (incredibly) bad the highlights really where something else. I'm really hoping to go next year and take the highs with the lows just to see anything of the same standard again would be a pleasure.

Me and some of the Demon Belles

One more thing.... Thanks to all my girls of Leicesters Demon Belles Society for a thoroughly entertaining weekend. Love u all xx

Workspace - Sneak Peak!

2011-04-17T14:34:00.000-07:00

Work

progress....

Watch This Space!

xXx

London Burlesque Fest 2011

2011-04-06T09:43:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned previously I am going to be going to London Burlesque fest this year. The various shows are in different places but in general its a week staying in Camden with all my lovely girlies. I have dabbled in a little bit of burlesque myself and have been to some very good................ and very bad burlesque shows in my time. Although it is a thoroughly mixed bag of tricks as to whether the show is organised well and the acts are good I would still risk it every time. When its good its very very good!

Eliza DeLite

This stunning lady is Eliza Delight who is a friend if mine from the Leicester DMU Demon Belles society and a thoroughly mind blowing performer. The skill in which she entertains her audiences with so many different props, themes and situations are incredible. Her costumes alone are creative and a lot of things she uses as part of her performance are hand made. Every act it different but thoroughly stunning and she hasn't disappointed once when Ive seen her. I am really hoping to get this lovely lady to Worcester really soon and organise mt own event with some of my contacts and hopefully prove burlesque isn't just a fad! Some of her concepts for her acts are so beautiful and its a very delicate mix of grace and skill, the classy end of burlesque and the high end of skill and quality entertainment. She is going to be performing in the British Bombshells, best of the UK show on the 28th of this month but mark my words. You'll see her very soon I'm sure.

"Eliza DeLite is a UK performer based in the East Midlands. Although her acts span a variety of styles including both neo & classic burlesque, her speciality lies with cheeky comedic performances inspired by her love of the 40′s pin up era and black and white funnies. Her goal is to entertain her audience with acts which are both funny and sexy." Taken from London Burlesque Festival website.

Another of my favourite performers is

Joe Black

Hes hilariously funny completely different and sometimes down right wrong. Ive seen him twice before and he really was the highlight. His Lady Gaga cover is brilliant and his show brings a whole new premise to the term Cabaret!
"An entertaining and inspiring cabaret artist, he has been voted a favourite of public and industry alike, with a constant stream of theatrical endeavours up and down the UK, Europe and internationally. Joe Black is a well seasoned and well endowed performer (or so we hear). From the smoky underground clubs of Paris, to the dimly lit cabarets of Berlin, even to the gloriously esteemed historical treasure that is the British library…
One of the pioneering personalities in new Variety, he is the unmistakable Vaudevillian Villain." Taken from London Burlesque Festival website

As you can probably tell I'm so very excited! I cant wait to see all of the shows especially "Twisted Cabaret". If any of you are in London, in the area and like a good fun night out with a bit of a sexy twist then you should make a trip to this for even just one show. I've heard this is the last year this year and although I hope this isn't the case I want to make sure I make the most of this year. I'm sure that the audience will look just as impressive as the performers and i will be attached to my camera all week.

Toodles x

2 things from this week?

2011-04-03T14:19:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been poo. Lots of exciting things happening in the wings. Moving to a new flat at the end of this month with a new studio space so should be able to get back to drawing soon, its been killing me I don't have enough space! so at the end of this month is the big move.

In the meantime I've bought the big plastic baroque frame and I have dreams of filling it with a crow and arrows and gold leaf.... watch this space.

To keep you entertained thus far....

2 links I've come across this week:

Milly Pilly seen on Hexotica blog post this week.

Awesome little fascinators and stuff!!! Loving skulls and net!

Nikki Lipstick - Linked on Gala Darling

The finest Burlesque geekery! I <3 it! These Diamonds are my favs, and the bats, and the bows! Actually If u wanna buy me a prezzie they're ll a winner lol AAAAND incase I hadn't mentioned it already (not sure I have) I am going to London Burlesque Festival this year, at the end of this very month infact, and I'm getting mega excited! I will do a post about one of the girls that dances with my old Burlesque group too who's performing in the British Bombshells category. I'm so proud of her.

be bak soon x

footnote: Leicester tattoo convention was a massive let down, found an amazing Tiki Bar though! Swings and roundabouts xD

First of many Minis!

2011-02-05T11:00:00.000-08:00

"Haus Wife #1 and #2" Picture size 5" x 3" frame size 6"x4"

Did these a while ago but don't think I ever blogged them? This is what has inspired me to do some more minis. I really like this pair in mini apertures and everything! Perfect for Valentines don't you think...... x

Etsy Treasury - Acey Deucey

2011-02-05T10:00:00.000-08:00

I liked this treasury and it had me in it :) x

Skulls: Visual scrapbook

2011-02-04T13:31:00.000-08:00

Wowzas, Friday again! where does the week go! Well I'm about to embark on my loooong working weekend so all work and no play for me but heres some things that caught my eye this week.

Charmaine Olivia I <3 this! and want one!

Vegetarianzombie.tumblr.com

toodles xx

All images taken from http://weheartit.com. If any of these images belong to you and you would like to be credited, or if you wish the image to be removed please contact me.

Collage: Visual scrapbook

2011-01-28T10:00:00.000-08:00

Arsenals Barking

Greg Gossel

All images taken from http://weheartit.com. If any of these images belong to you and you would like to be credited, or if you wish the image to be removed please contact me.

Handiedan - Pin up collage

2011-01-22T10:00:00.000-08:00

Stumbles across this work today, Wow! What an inspiration. I <3 this. and I wish I could draw filigree better. Check out this website, well worth a look ------> Handidan. Ink and collage and tattoo imagery! I've died and gone to heaven! *swoon*

Queen of Hearts No.2

Toilet / Jane Stone No.2

Valkyries No.3

This last piece imparticular reminds me of the work of Dan Hillier.I like the mix of pattern, collage and defined layering in the above and the print I own of Dan's below.

http://www.danhillier.com/

xXx

Hard Candy: Visual Scrapbook

2011-01-21T10:00:00.000-08:00

daydreaminglily.blogspot.com

http://www.booooooom.com/2009/04/06/david-fullarton-mixed-media-drawings

@Booooooom vancouver

art+photo blog with a soft spot for hand-made work by unknown people.

http://www.booooooom.com

xXx

All images taken from http://weheartit.com. If any of these images belong to you and you would like to be credited, or if you wish the image to be removed please contact me.

What I've been up to!

2011-01-19T10:00:00.000-08:00

I thought I should let you know about the shop in Droitwich (where my family live). There's some gorgeous jewellery and ceramics and things. They are stocking some of my framed prints too! have a look at Nice Things.

"Nice Things" Worcester Road, UK

Also the lovely Melissa of Missy Magpie commissioned me (the artist) and my sister (the clever tech bod) to do her a banner for her fabulous vintage blog. See the original below! and check out how it looks on her site here!

also I feel I don't tell you about my sister enough shes ace! Check her out at the Fashion Laundrette!

Meine Schwestie.

xXx

Oh em gee: Project 2011

2011-01-17T09:53:00.000-08:00

Ive been away for too long. Ive been weedling away don't you worry :).

Soooo Ive decided that this year is the year of the mini, miniature works that is. Ive been collecting and sketching and recently I've been inspired by all things mixed media, small and more than anything, Books! Old books, Art books, medical books and religious imagery and, yeah you guessed books!

www.daydreamlily.blogspot.com

I love paper and tattoos and vintage looking items. The 50s, the 20's and the B-movie ultra vixens. I feel like my work is about to take a real U-turn.

My friends flat :)

I'm excited by Urban art 2011. I'm going to start producing a new line of work using mixed media and words. I can use book form but I plan to produce a series of originals no bigger than 6 inches by 4 inches on different papers with different themes and some painted, drawn stuck collaged. I'm excited.

Bible bought from Vintage Market, London (£1!)

I have also decided that from now on I will use this site as more of a scrap book for all things I find interesting. Even if I'm not creating so prepare for some inspiration (hopefully) weekly?@! You never know.

Vintage Cocktail book, Junk shop in Upton (£2!)

Claire

xXx

Quickie on a sickie

2010-09-13T08:36:00.000-07:00

I'm really poorly and full of cold since Sunday but well aware I haven't posted in a while due to work. Here are my two most recent finished pieces which will be available in print form really soon. But right now they are framed ready for my empty shop takeover from the 21st September for 2 weeks in Droitwich town centre. Pikkies when its up xx

also I should say Hello **waves** to my new followers. Spread the word. I am on twitter too misshiltonink and when I reach 200 twitter followers I will give you guys a 10% off code for my Etsy shop.

I should also let you know that I am taking part in an awesome give away.

go to Lipstattoo666 for more info on how to get ure hands on some wonderful stuff including a trick or treat mini original by me!!!

More soon!

Miss Hilton Ink. The next generation!

2010-08-25T06:52:00.000-07:00

Im sooo excited. I rekon Im on the cusp of something very exciting. I've spent the past few weeks despairing about what I'm going to do with all my prints to make them much more presentable so that I can show customers the finished product to encourage them to picture within their minds eye, my work in their homes....

The answer in Upcycling. Following on from my boot sale bargains the other week I went charity shop shopping and to home ware stores buying up all the slightly damaged and broken frames that they are selling off cheap. It could mean getting glass cut, putting new hooks on or just replacing the wire on the back, even just filling in some chipping or paint damage but its fairly easy, cheap and it really finishes my work off well. Here are some recent examples.

Skele-swallows print in upcycled frame.

Check This Item out on my Etsy.

"Worse things happen at sea II" 2010 in Upcycled frame.

Original piece in frame £120

"Flick knives" 2010 (£60)

This frame was a well good find! Its a frame mounted into a white box frame that stands out from the wall by 2 inches. It makes my piece look really finished.

The bonus of doing it this way is that most of my frames will be unique, making the pieces one off and also quirky, something a bit different to make my work stand out from the rest.

I would <3 to know what you think xx

Productive day...

2010-08-09T10:01:00.000-07:00

Howdy.

Well the honeymoon is nearly over, my stitches came out today which means no more "taking it easy" and specifically back to work Thursdays! I have been working my little non-existent socks off today and have completed a new "Worse Things Happen At Sea" Original to fill one of the frames I got yesterday and I should be able to put it up for display in my show in Worcester on Sunday.

I also Finally finished my carousel horse. Inspired by the pic below I took in Bournemouth a month or so ago.

"Lucky" 2010

Just keeping you up to date :D I would love to know what you think. Her brother "Cursed" 2010 is already in progress hope to sell them as a pair.

*sneak peak* - on my stretching board

Toodles xx

Car boot bounty

2010-08-08T07:52:00.000-07:00

I got up uber early this morning and braved the Kempsy car boot today and oh wasn't I rewarded by the junk gods. Check out these amazing pictures.

Really, I hear you cry. There nothing special. Well what about this:

look at the gorgeous frames!!

I have started today a New hand painted "Worse things happen at sea" to fill it. Oh and I haven't even told you the best part THEY WERE £1.50, yes for both! A-mazin.

I also got these two framed wonders to use for framage and I'm gonna use the butterfly too. I don't know what for yet.

above left 20p and butterfly £1.

BARGAIN!

Two things to inform you of, you may or not be aware that I now have a twitter account! Although I am in the early stages of tweeting (i believe its called?!?) please follow me to see pics as i go along of my images and drawings etc when I have creative days off! Find me @misshiltonink.

Also I realised to my horror yesterday that the Worcesters Riverside Arts Market is in a week today!!! That's the 15th of this month people and if your local you should come down and show your support. The arts market is on 3 times this month 15th 22nd and 28th!

anywho I'm off sick from work at the mo because Ive had an op on my back and have stitches which means i cant paint for too long without feeling un-comfortable so I haven't been at my best recently although the creativity is definitely still there. I'm excited about filling my new frames!

Toodles xx

Urban Art 2010 17-18th July

2010-07-28T06:53:00.000-07:00

Had an excellent weekend guys.

Thanks to all who travelled to attend including a elite few of my friends came from far and wide which was much appreciated.

As usual I would like to do a summary of the show itself and some of my favourite pieces and artists:

Starting off with The Gurley. I really liked her work because it was a curious mix of collage and screen print. The colours popped and there was a real brit pop media vibe. Here are some pics of the event.

My favourite images off her website are:

Images: Sketch book work and "john, snoopy, woodstock and a cat in a bin".

Next is a guy weirdly from Leicester where I went to uni, who me and my friend Steve both recognised him and the buildings in his paintings. His name is Tim Fowler and he does wonderfully colourful work on industrial images of buildings both from home and on his travels.

This was my favourite piece of his. Its Leicester prison, a building I recognised from living there for 3 years. I love the colours and the suggestion of solid spaces.

Next there was a piece I really liked at the whole event and this piece was by Caroline Macey.

This was absolutely my favourite piece although now I cant find her on the Internet :(. It was an etching i believe of a skeleton passionately intertwined with a young woman. I thought it was really dark but beautiful as an image.

Throughout the day you get all sorts of freebies and chat to people and the coolest thing i got was a business card that was an ACTUAL playing card which I think is a really good idea which I may adapt in future and a whole newspaper. Full of articles about artists and their prints from a company called Artswipe. The guy was telling me that he represents all these artists who are selling prints through him at these events, which I thought was an amazing idea and the publications not too shabby either. have a look at www.artswipe.com and you can also download PDFs of the newspaper that impressed me so much. Here are a few images of the Artswipe stand:

For all my photos from the event CLICK HERE.

Thanks for reading xx

One more time

2010-07-16T02:51:00.000-07:00

I'm going to be out of communication for a while as I'm off to London this weekend to sell my wares in Brixton Urban Art Festival. I'm also going to see a lot of old friends so I'm tres excited.

If U fancy joining me then I will be there Sat and Sunday, and truthfully even If I wasn't exhibiting then I would be there anyway. Its a fab concept with some lovely people.

See you there?

Carousel, oh Carousel.....

2010-07-05T09:15:00.000-07:00

I love carousel horses. I am hoping to do some new designs using my recent photos as inspiration.

Bournemouth

Below - For my sister Emily xx

Worcester

Ciao xx

Great end to a great long weekend :D

2010-07-05T08:59:00.000-07:00

I have had a brill weekend with my ladies is Bournemouth.

I returned to check my many internet based things to find to my delight that I have been chosen for a feature on Skull-A-Day - (Specific Article).

Which is one of my favourite blogs! If you are visiting from there then welcome!

I have done some new Etsy listings today aswell,

and the coutdown to Brixton Urban Art continues

12 Days!!!!!!!

Finished today... and One nearly done!

2010-06-20T11:35:00.000-07:00

Today/this weekend has been very fruitful and creative. I've got a lot of bits and bobs finished and a lot of packing done!

Just a really quick one to show you the two that I inked today and my 3rd nearly finished image. The latter two inspired by Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland.

"Worse Things Happen At Sea" 2010

"I'm Late..." 2010

"Eat Me, Drink Me" 2010

Back to work 2morrow :( x

New Etsy Listings

2010-06-19T06:22:00.000-07:00

Recently with the help of my sister, Ive really been trying to get things printed in batches and then stickering and then numbered and signed which I'm sure you can appreciate is a long process today however I'm pleased to say I actually feel like I'm getting somewhere!

All of the Skull Aces series are now up for sale in My Etsy Shop along with many others in multiple sizes (13x18, A4 and A3!)

A lot of my packaging is done and to add to my recent enthusiasm I made 4 sales in the recent I-candy exhibition in Hastings.

I would love it if you would go and have a look!

Filling me with optimism for Brixton which is looming near.

BRING IT ON!!!!!!!!!

One more before Download Festival 2010!!!!!

2010-06-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

Just finished "Painting the Roses Red" 2010 (prints available soon)

New Outline!!

First pics of new pieces using my vintage anatomy books.

See you next week xx

A3 Prints now for sale on Etsy.

2010-06-02T11:20:00.000-07:00

FINALLY!
My prints of all of the Aces, Pretty Little Dead Girl and the Skullifly in Orange are up for sale on Etsy.

Feel free to have a peruse at Miss Hilton Ink! 10x15s and A4s will be available soon and I'm really close to finishing another couple of originals too. You heard it here first peeps. xx

I like old books and I cannot lie.................

2010-06-01T10:42:00.000-07:00

I was looking into buying some vintage book papers off etsy.com but I could only find ones in the US but then I found a lovely old book shop in Upton On Seven when I went to get my prints done. Real Aladdin's cave kind of place, stacked to the rafters. Lots of little gems and I found these A-mazing old anatomy books.

I'm not quite sure what I'm going to do with them yet I may see if I can make digital files rather than destroy the books. They have notes in them "To Gregory" and they are so charming.

Watch this space.....................

prints done, now just to mount, bag and price lol simples x

10 doors from Marrakech

2010-06-01T08:23:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed my holiday and I am back now xx

Im going away

2010-05-08T06:24:00.000-07:00

To Morocco on Monday but I just thought Id post one more thing before I go.......

Thanks Very Much to Alex of Alice In Wonderland Arts and Malice In Underland for sending me this lovely print in the post for FREE after winning her blog competition on May 1st. It arrived today and its fab!

Hopefully when I'm back I will bring you some beautiful pikkies of Morocco and then there's 2 months until Urban Art 2010. Eeeeeeeeek. Betta get down the print makers.

Toodle pip! xx

Finished and ready for the print makers.

2010-04-26T06:29:00.000-07:00

along with my skull aces.

whoop. Cant wait to get my prints done. Im still investigating who to use tho.

Watch this space x

Work in progress - April 2010

2010-04-26T06:19:00.000-07:00

Newer better versions of older pieces.

OLD "Twiggy" 2005

NEW "Twiggy" 2010

OLD

NEW

Also Im butterfly crazy at the mo. I inked this the other day and am going to fashion a skull to go in the middle with mount board underneath to make it stand forward.

Much like I have done with the cattle skull and Cacti below.

anywho just some rough pics.

Hope you like them x

"Things That Were Once There" 2008

2010-04-26T04:01:00.000-07:00

"Book" 2008

"Kitchen Phone" 2008

"Cottage at Burton (Wirral)” 2008

“Mobility Handles (Bathroom)” 2008

“Coffee Cup” 2008

These are part of a series of photographs I did at the end of my degree in a continuing project "Things That Were Once There". I am fascinated by places where things were obviously there for a long period of time, have been removed but have still left their mark on their old habitat. This is a metaphor for how things or people can leave their mark long after the event itself. This is something I continue to investigate in photography form.

Tell me what you think?

Worcester Open 2010 - Highlights

2010-04-25T07:28:00.000-07:00

Well, what a busy week! Apart from the general work malarkey and being a general dirty stop out :S Ive tried to organise myself a bit for the Private Views at the PITT Gallery and the Annex21 in Worcester as part of Worcester Open 2010. Its a locally organised event to showcase lots of different artists work predominantly from the local area. I didn't know what to expect really but I'm quite impressed at not only the diversity of the work and how many different techniques that have been used, but also the sheer number of entries. It really does inspire me to think that all of these people are at home spending time and putting effort into something like this, as well as little old me!

On Friday night I visited the PITT Gallery. Its not somewhere Id been before (although I did try the once to find it was closed). Its ever so tucked away, one of Worcesters many little secrets I'm sure. There was work outside, in the widows on plinths, on T.Vs and honestly, its not the biggest place in the world. However, most of the walls space was covered from top to bottom. Some people would have been disappointed with their space but what shouldn't have worked really did. I must have walked around 3 times and seen different pieces each time. Its the kind of thing that when its busy you end up seeing only whats in front of you and nothing else. You really need to stand in the middle of the room and spin around slowly lol. And my piece looked great in that frame on a easily accessible flat wall not too high.

At this point walking away from this part of the show there were two main pieces that stood out to me to be really special.

"A Feathered Friend" by Alistair Cowin

Although I think its entirely obvious why somebody would like this piece, Its also worth mentioning two points. It is the first thing I saw as I walked into the garden area. He has been given a VERY good spot and rightly so, it stops you in you're tracks. And secondly a friend of mine knows of this guy and he is and has been for some time a glamour photographer. Somebody whos obviously got much more experience and know how on the art world than me, in the same exhibition.

"A Day In The Sun" by Lisa Marie Thompson

I just love this. Its everything I like, drama, striking block colours and lines with a bit of glamour. Its got a very burlesque vibe to it. Right up my alley!

"Hope" By Sue Canonico

This is just so well done. It reminds me very much of something that a very talented friend of mine did when we were at art college. Just so technically perfect with a lovely subject. Obviously very talented. This piece is of considerable size and could have held you're gaze on that wall all on its own but stood out amongst the others.

Last night I visited the Annex21 which is what was formerly known as Worcester Arts Workshop. Its a small cafe based area within which the works have been hung and again similarly to the PITT not the biggest space in the world but well used and housed some more great stuff.

My one highlight from this was

"Godzilla is ill" by Xue Wang

I really like this its got a haunting, pin-up or manga feel to it and again the technical skill is obvious. I am envious of anybody who can do this with acrylic paint on canvas. Something I have always struggled with. I don't think this picture really does it justice as I remember the colours being of a much more vibrant quality.

In conclusion I really think you (Yes, YOU!) should go. I really hope that local people support this event purely to gain an understanding of the amount of creatively talented people in the local area because lets face it, its easy to forget!.

It also highlighted to me that I havn't been to any shows for such a long time and this has to change. I am going to make a real effort over the summer to see and do more art based trips. Watch this space for more mini-reviews xx

Korea 2009

2010-03-27T09:33:00.000-07:00

Just thought Id show you some of the photos that are for sale in my shop (www.misshilton.etsy.com) and will be in the Hastings Exhibition. These were taken in Korea when I was there last year Visiting my friend Lou.

Skull Aces

2010-03-27T08:57:00.000-07:00

They are finished, and have been for a while. They are making their debut it 6x4 postcard form at the Hasting I-Candy exhibition. Here's a sneaky peak of my finished originals done in just bigger than A4 in ink on watercolour paper.

I would love to know what you think. I will be getting A3 prints done of them soon and Ive decided to start uploading my old photography work from last year on here as well as that will all be coming to urban art with me in the summer.

I also Have a piece in the Worcester Open Art 2010 in the Pitt Gallery in Worcester on Landsdown Road.

For more info on I candy exhibition in Hastings go to: www.spanglefish.com/iCandyArts/

For more info on Worcester Open Art go to: www.worcesteropen.co.uk

2010-02-19T13:45:00.000-08:00

Just a quick not to say I'm uber excited about Urban Art 2010! I went last year coz my friend was selling work and this year the pitches have gone soooo fast. The girl next to my friend last year made over £2000 selling coloured abstracts. The stalls had only been out a week and i managed to get the last one. Its exactly what i needed to motivate me to get my arse into gear and get some new and exciting work on the go. I reckon I wanna do some Alice in wonderland themed things but based on the old school descriptions maybe, or even my own rendition who knows. Anywho I'm waffling the main thing is www.urbanart.co.uk have a look and its well worth going to to buy or just go and have a look around, its a lovely way to spend a lazy afternoon in London town! It is in July tho lol I will remind you before then but I cant wait!!!!!!!

Also looking into a postcard exhibition in Hastings of work that 6x4 inches. Sounds interesting. Watch this space.

more pikkies soon xx

So the weather outside is frightful.............

2010-02-15T09:11:00.000-08:00

And I've been a bit down of recent so Ive thrown myself into a new project that I'm excited about. I'm starting the pack of cards project properly from the images and sketches I originally did. Today I drew them all out in pencil and pen drew all the lines in. The next stage is tea staining but i thought id give you a look first.

I'm doing this to make prints to sell at Brixton Urban Art 2010 (hopefully) as long as I can get time of work in time to book a slot. check it out on www.urbanart.co.uk. I went last year and I loved it!

Anywho here are my skull suit cards. Please let me know what you think. Ive done them in a set of four that also can be slip it to two sets of two. The clubs and the hearts match............

And the Diamonds and the Clubs match, because I've changed the layout. I wanted the to work, on their own as pairs and as a set.

Thats all for now. I havnt got time (or space) to tea stain them all today but I will keep u posted.

xXx

Work in progress

2010-01-22T10:51:00.000-08:00

Okay so... This is clearing the back log of stuff I have shown you and haven't quite finished but have been inked so far. You've seen the outlines for the Nurse Skull and the Flower with the skull centre well they are now inked and ready for the gold leaf edges to finish them. The scalloped edging will have gold leaf on it, when I can find it. and then they are done. I am in two minds what colour to do the lip edging on the Nurse Skull so I have left it for now to go back to later. They are all inked using Daler Rowney ink pots and on mount boards with a 45 degree angled edge (the centre from cutting out aperture frames). I have ran out of these boards now which is a shame as Ive used them for lots of cool little things.

Then the other two things left to tell you about are my Flick-knife sketch and my roses practice sheet. I really like my flick-knife design and as usual when it come to colours and inking my outlines I got stage fright so Ive put it off for ages. I didn't want to do block colour and make it look flat so I filled the areas that I wanted to paint with a small later of water and then painted the ink in over the top causing it to run and mix together. I really like this effect and it makes the colours look much more vivid and exciting.Its also more subtle and interesting. Reminds me of tie dye. (Pen and ink on watercolour paper 12 x 9 inches)

The last thing is I thought Id post my roses practice sheet just so you could have a look. When I did the Rose with the diamond in the middle on the previous post I didn't like it. It ended up looking dull and the shading didn't make sense. So I decided practice makes perfect and I did a new outline and drew it as many times as I could fit on the page to practice my shading. I'm sticking to regular shading at the moment even though I was tranna make the other rose old school black and red, it didn't work. BUT, some of these roses look fab and are good to remember for the future. It also got me thinking about colour combinations, which I often struggle with. I am always putting too many colour into a piece of work and they just don't fit together. A worthwhile exercise. (Ink on watercolour paper 12 x 9 inches)

Happy New Year

2010-01-22T10:37:00.000-08:00

............ and all that Jazz.

This is what I have been doing recently. I haven't kept you up to date but I have been doing some work. I got some great ark kit over Xmas including some great outlining pens and markers.

Ive been experimenting with some designs of roses and swallows. I liked the original outlines and I went onto some tattoo drawing forums before I started for some hints and tips. So I drew out my designs once in fine line then over the bolder edges with a brush pen then inked them in. I came up with two lots of skellie swallows. I prefer the second ones, I've made them more obviously male and female. But the piece on the whole doesn't work. Its modern mixed with old school and misses the mark slightly. The rose itself, the shading doesn't make sense to the eye and basically i bodged it up but even so I'm going to keep it for reference and the tea stained background was very effective. In the third one I used the original skeleton swallow idea with the secondary outline to a much better outcome and better rose too taken from my rose practice sheet.

Suger Skulls and what not.....

2009-11-17T07:05:00.000-08:00

Today Ive had a well deserved day off work and I've sat down and penned up some stuff to be inked. Ive started thinking about sell-able bits for Brixton Urban Art Festival next year. There is some amazing stuff there, last year I bought work by Dan Hillier (www.danhillier.com) i love the dark drawings and patterned backgrounds. He does original ink drawing kinda like what I do but much better lol.

So today I penned 3 drawings onto mount board (5.5 x 7.5 inch ish) to ink another day....

Ive been thinking a lot bout day of the dead and sugar skulls of recent, I want to track down some day of the dead events in the future in galleries etc. I was on searching for things earlier and found www.squidgyart.com.

This is a lady who is looking to raise money for charity next year by sending skulls out to artists to paint and sell on Ebay to raise money for hospices. I think Its an ace idea and I definitely would love to do one. Also check out her website anyway. Her paintings are very VERY good.

Quick update

2009-11-05T14:22:00.000-08:00

Really quick one, Ive been in Leicester for the past few days and I had a blast. Bin in touch with a few old studio buddies from the uni days and its kinda got me thinking again.

Spoke 2 Jack about a digital collaboration in the pipe line.... and also E.P covers for The Brazilians.

Anywho before I fall asleep I have sorted out my etsy.com shop again. So take a look.

www.misshilton.etsy.com

More pikkies soon I promise :S xx

Poorly sick today

2009-10-08T10:21:00.000-07:00

Poorly today, didn't sleep last night so feeling rubbish. Found some pieces lying around to add to my online collection, including Geoff and Ted!

Oh and also

2009-10-07T03:45:00.000-07:00

My friends band have one of my paintings as their album cover!!!

Check out their myspace: http://www.myspace.com/braziliansmusic

and their album can be bought on Itunes with my cover :D.

Sketch book

2009-10-07T03:18:00.000-07:00

Today as a start since I had some spare time i thought Id post some pen outlines from my sketchbook. These are all watermarked as I don't want them stolen (paranoid I know) bit of extra effort but let me know what you think.

I have two basic skull outlines I use, I have called them Geoff and Ted. I started a painting ages ago of the Hula skeleton that only has then background at the moment. At this point a confession, I'm not very good with colour.... sometimes I colour my sketches in and it just looks wrong. I have tried to colour the flower skull page using colour theme to try and simplify it but it didn't work. I will hopefully post some sketches and finished small bits today, later on.

The Koi is something I try and keep practising, I found a very useful tutorial on Ink Trials Tattoo Forums (http://forum.ink-trails.com/Koi-Tutorial-t6873.html&hl=koi+tutorial).

Just another quick one before bed.

2009-10-06T14:49:00.000-07:00

Thought Id quickly post some pikkies of recent work in progress. I am planning on water marking finished items but not items in a development stage. Here are a couple of pen drawings and some ink skulls from things Ive started in my sketchbook.

The tattoo type sketches are for my own amusement really. When I graduated University (DMU, Leicester) last year in Fine Art I was unemployed for about 5 months and I started looking at tattoo drawing tutorials etc online. I am a fan of flash and tattoos generally so these are some that I have penned out but yet to be inked, I always get nervous at this point that I might make a mess of it so generally I scan the outline into my computer to re-produce if necessary.

The idea behind the ink skulls is the ace of clubs. I want to do some digital work producing all the aces in a pack of cards in an ink drawn fashion but printed on nice paper and produced in a set of 4. This was my first provisional sketch and I have also looked at fonts.

I have lots of other works in progress, swallow skeletons, skulls and Hawaii day of the deads so I will post again when I am more prepared lol. I only decided today I would start a blog and these are just images I had to hand.

I'm getting tattooed tomorrow. Cant wait :D

Hello cruel world

2009-10-06T14:27:00.000-07:00

Today is my first blogging day YAY!!! I have decided after being inspired by other peoples talents and work on the Internet and a difficulty in keeping in contact with people I have previously worked around in a studio at university etc, that this would be a good tool for feedback on my work and to also keep everybody informed of what I'm up 2 generally. I will try and keep this art and image based, but I do apologise if you get snippets of my general existence as well. I don't do as much as I would like due to the obvious time based restriction. I am also hoping this will motivate me to do more!

We shall see................... Watch this space.