Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and Holidays!
May love, peace and joy be with you!
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©Copyright Carolina Russo – carolinarussoart.com
Merry Christmas!
Category: Events
Welcoming the Winter Solstice: Heartwarming Ways to Celebrate and Prepare
Hello beautiful souls,
we’re getting closer to the Winter Solstice! The longest night of the year, marks a powerful turning point, a time when darkness begins to wane, and the light slowly returns. Celebrating the Solstice can be a deeply meaningful way to connect with nature and the Universe, reflect on the year past, and set intentions for the months ahead. Here are some beautiful ways to prepare for and celebrate this magical event, creating warmth and joy in the heart of winter.
The Solstice is December 21, 2024
Preparing for the Winter Solstice
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Create a Cozy Space
Transform your home into a haven of warmth and light. Decorate with candles, fairy lights, and seasonal greenery like pine, holly, or mistletoe. Use soft blankets and comforting textures to create a nurturing atmosphere where you can retreat from the cold. -
Reflect and Release
The Solstice is an ideal time for self-reflection. Set aside time to journal about the past year, what you’ve learned, what you’re ready to let go of, and what you hope to welcome. Write down anything you want to release on slips of paper, and burn them safely as a symbolic gesture of letting go. -
Gather Natural Elements
Go for a winter walk and gather natural materials like pinecones, evergreen branches, or stones to incorporate into your celebrations. These can be used to decorate an altar, wreath, or centerpiece, connecting you with the rhythms of the Earth. -
Plan Your Intentions
As the Solstice celebrates the return of the light, it’s a wonderful time to set intentions for the year ahead. What do you want to grow or nurture in your life as the days grow longer?
Heartwarming Ways to Celebrate the Winter Solstice
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Light a Candle Ceremony
Light candles to symbolize the return of the sun and the growing light. Gather your family, friends, or simply yourself in a quiet moment, and reflect on the warmth and hope the light brings into your life. -
Prepare a Feast of Seasonal Foods
Celebrate with a meal that honors the season. Incorporate comforting dishes like roasted root vegetables, warm soups, spiced baked goods, or mulled cider. Sharing a Solstice meal with loved ones is a beautiful way to nourish both body and spirit. -
Spend Time in Nature
Bundle up and take a walk outdoors, appreciating the stillness and beauty of the winter landscape. Pause to listen to the quiet, observe the bare trees, and feel the connection to the Earth as it rests. -
Create a Yule Log Tradition
The Yule Log is an ancient tradition where a decorated log is burned as a symbol of light overcoming darkness. If you have a fireplace, you can burn a Yule Log with wishes or blessings written on it. Alternatively, you can create a decorative Yule Log centerpiece with candles. -
Meditation and Rituals
Meditate on themes of renewal, gratitude, and the cycles of nature. You can also perform a simple ritual, such as visualizing light filling your heart and radiating out into the world, bringing hope and positivity. -
Craft and Create
Engage in creative activities like making Solstice-inspired art, handcrafting ornaments, or creating wreaths from gathered greenery. These acts of creation embody the spirit of renewal and transformation.
A Celebration of Light and Hope
The Winter Solstice is a time to honor the beauty of the season and embrace its lessons. By celebrating this day with heartwarming traditions, you can find joy in the stillness of winter and welcome the light with open arms.
And if you made it to read this whole post Thank You! How do you plan to celebrate the Winter Solstice this year? I’d love to hear your thoughts and traditions in the comments below. Wishing you a season filled with warmth, light, and love!
A Quick Note: The images featured in this post are from my Winter Art Collection, inspired by the season’s beauty and magic. If you love these pieces, prints of my whole Winter Collection are available in my Etsy Shop as Limited and Open Editions. Visit my shop to bring the spirit of winter into your home!
With Solstice blessings wishing you great days ahead!
©Copyright Carolina Russo – carolinarussoart.com
Embracing the Magic of Winter: My 12-Day Winter Draw Challenge (Part 2)
Hello again,
The 12-Day Winter Draw Challenge has officially come to an end yesterday on December 12, and I couldn’t be happier to have completed it. This journey has been a beautiful exploration of winter’s magic, and I’m thrilled to share the final six drawings with you.
Each of the 12 pieces in my Winter Draw Challenge beautifully captures the essence of the winter and festive season, weaving delicate details with vivid storytelling. Each prompt drew inspiration from the season’s magic, embracing everything from its serene beauty to its joyful celebrations. Here are the final six creations:
- Day 6: Letter
With this drawing I wanted to capture the feeling of heartfelt love reading a special letter from a loved one being far away during the holidays. The delicate color palette and the color blue is to show the feeling of melancholy for that precise moment of missing someone.
- Day 7: Feast
She is my Christmas colorful Fairy preparing the stockings and wearing a beautiful Poinsettia flower dress! She is charming and brings feeling of happiness and joy!
- Day 8: Owl
I love Owls they symbolize intuition, wisdom, mystery, intelligence and protection!
- Day 9: Advent
The four weeks of Advent are a time for preparation and introspection a time of reflection within yourself and in this drawing I wanted to capture all of this and the four themes of Hope, Peace, Love and Joy! - Day 10: Oranges
I loved to create her ornate with old fashion dry oranges traditions
- Day 11: Ivy. Day 12: Candlelight. (Combined prompts)
For last two days I combined the two prompts into one drawing. The beautiful Ivy head pieces and the candles. The two girls represents sisters or sisterhood!
Completing this challenge was both inspiring and rewarding, each year is a beautiful time. I’m so grateful for the support and encouragement I’ve received throughout this creative journey it’s truly meant the world to me.
If you missed the previous Blog post with the first 5 days drawings you can see it here:
Embracing the Magic of Winter: My 12-Day Winter Draw Challenge (Part 1)
Availability:
If any of these pieces speak to you, I’m delighted to share that all 12 drawings are now available as Limited and Open Edition Prints in my Etsy Shop. Whether you choose the intimate 5×7 inches size or the striking 8×10 inches size, each print is “Hand Enhanced with inks and a spark of gold” making them perfect for adding a timeless touch of winter magic to be a special addition to your art collection. or gifting to a loved one.
Don’t miss out, visit my Etsy Shop to browse the full Winter Christmas Collection and if you find something please use at checkout this Discount Code: THANKYOU for 10% Off!
Thank you for following along on this journey. I hope these creations bring joy and inspiration to your day!
With love and creativity until next time!
Copyright ©Carolina Russo – carolinarussoart.com
Embracing the Magic of Winter: My 12-Day Winter Draw Challenge
Welcome December!
Hello, as the frosty chill of Winter settles in, I find myself inspired by the magic of this season, the quiet beauty of snow-dusted landscapes, the warm glow of holiday lights, and the endless possibilities for creativity. To celebrate, I’m excited to introduce the 12-Day Winter Draw Challenge hosted on Instagram by my amazing artists friends in UK : @nomkinnearking and @adamoehlers and @natachachohraart, a personal journey of artistic exploration and seasonal joy. It is from years now that I make sure to participate to these wonderful twelve days of Winter-Christmas themed art!
We are deep into the challenge already, which began on December 1st I haven’t had time to post here. I’ve already created my first 5 entries and for the next 7 days, I’ll be creating a new drawing each day, inspired by a unique Winter- Christmas themed prompt. This challenge is not just about creating art it’s about capturing the essence of the season, staying inspired, and sharing that joy with you all.
Today, I’m happy to share the first five day drawings of this creative adventure. Each piece is a vision infused with my love for winter and its many facets, from the serene quiet of beautiful evenings to the lively energy of festive gatherings.
- Day 1: Prompt King
I loved to create this first drawing. The Winter Queen with the magnificent King Lion. Reminds me of Aslan in Narnia I realized this when I finished the drawing.
- Day 2: Prompt Fox
This is a beautiful Magical Fox and Spirit Animal.
- Day 3: Prompt Yule
I had this drawing made years ago in a small sketch! I thought would fit the prompt as I have reworked it and made it bigger she is my Forest Goddess to represent Yule.
- Day 4: Prompt Chocolate.
This drawing is close to my heart. A sip of hot chocolate brings beautiful memories, holidays traditions growing up in Italy, thinking my family and home.
- Day 5: Prompt Silent Night.
each year I like to create a lady figure “Christmas Tree” this year she is singing Silent Night all lightened up with candles in the middle of the forest! Some words from the lyric are a special touch to this drawing.
I hope these drawings bring a bit of seasonal warmth and inspiration into your day!
Whether you’re an artist, a winter enthusiast, one of my collectors, or someone seeking creative inspiration, I invite you to follow along, share your thoughts, and perhaps even join in on the challenge.
Let’s celebrate the beauty of winter together, one drawing and one day at a time. Stay tuned for more updates as I continue this journey, and let me know which piece resonates with you the most! Tomorrow prompt is Letter. Follow me on Instagram @carolinarussoart
Preorder Prints: The first five drawings are already available as Limited Edition Prints hand enhanced! I will keep adding more daily as I create them! To Preorder visit my Etsy Shop
With creative energy and warm wishes, until next post stay safe and warm!
Copyright ©Carolina Russo – carolinarussoart.com
Winter Art Collection 2024
Hello and Happy Winter Season!
It’s been a little while since my last post, and I’m thrilled to reconnect with all of you! I have some exciting news to share: my Etsy shop has been freshly restocked with my Winter Art Collection. You’ll find an array of Winter and Christmas-themed art, perfect for the season, and I’ll continue adding new pieces to keep the collection growing.
Each print is hand-enhanced, adding a special touch that makes each piece unique and full of life. These fine art prints make lovely holiday gifts or a cozy addition to your own space.
✨ Holiday Offer: To celebrate, I’m offering 15% off when you purchase any two prints!
If you love my Art please visit my ETSY Shop!
❤ If you’d like your art to arrive in time for Christmas, now is the perfect time to order and save! Plus, enjoy free shipping within the U.S. on orders of $35 or more.
Each print in my collection is hand-enhanced, meaning I personally add finishing touches to every piece. These aren’t just ordinary prints; each one is unique, with my hand-drawn details and a touch of subtle gold or silver highlights. It’s my way of bringing a bit more warmth and artistry to every piece that reaches your hands.
Important Cutoff Date: Holiday Orders within US last day to order prints would be December 12 earlier the best!
Thank you for being here and sharing in my creative journey. During a time when the world feels uncertain, I hope my art can bring a bit of peace and joy to your day. I’d love for you to stop by and explore the Winter Art Collection and much more in my Etsy shop it’s a collection meant to add warmth, comfort, and a touch of winter magic to your space.
Here’s to a beautiful Winter Season filled with creativity, calm, and kindness. always keep that magic light shining within YOU! If you had your eyes on something and you don’t find it in shop please Contact me!
Warmest wishes,
Carolina
©Copyright Carolina Russo – carolinarussoart.com
Inktober 2024 Prompt List: Challenge Your Creativity Daily
INKTOBER is Almost Here!
Get ready, artists! Inktober is just around the corner, starting on October 1st. It’s the perfect time to challenge your creativity and improve your inking skills by creating one drawing each day based on the official Inktober Prompt List, which has just been released!
This year’s list is full of inspiring prompts that will spark your imagination and push you to explore new sketching ideas. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, Inktober is a fun and rewarding way to grow and connect with other creatives. I have participated from years since 2016 I kind of skipped last year. So this year I really would like to do it!
The theme showing up from the prompt list is pretty clear to me and inspiring!
The theme showing up from the prompt list is pretty clear to me and inspiring!
Stay tuned for more updates, and let’s make this Inktober unforgettable! I hope you joining me!
Jake Parker the illustrator and creator of InkTober released the new “Official Prompt List 2024” I am happy to post it here so that you have some time until October 1st to get your supplies and plan your challenge, get ready is going to be fun!
Here is the INKTOBER Story and Rrules:
Illustrator Jake Parker is the creator of this great challenge and initiative started in October 2009. Jake created InkTober as a challenge to improve his inking skills and develop positive drawing habits. It has since grown into a worldwide endeavor with thousands of artists taking on the challenge every year.
Here there are the Official Rules:
1) Make a drawing in ink is the original rule but you’re free to use any drawing medium you prefer! Of course Ink is what originated it all.
2) Post it*
3) Hashtag it with #inktober and #inktober2024
4) Repeat
That’s it! Now go make something beautiful…
Visit Jake Parker website for more details, videos, inspiration and lots to learn about InkTober. If you like to join these challenges don’t forget when you post your drawing online always add the hashtags #INKTOBER2024 #INKTOBER post your ink drawing online on your Blog and/or on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter…add all the tags to any place you share your drawings online!
Some of my Favorite Supplies:
I use Micron or COPIC pens Black, Brown, Dark Red inks #01, #005, White SAKURA Gelly Roll pen, Pentel Pocket Brush blak ink, ALVIN Mab Graves Draft/Matic Pencils , Winsor & Newton Drawing Inks.
(FYI This is not a sponsored post I have no affiliation with any of these brands. I purchase all my supplies and I am only sharing what I like and use)
Good luck to everyone joining InkTober 2024
There is plenty of time to prepare yourself! I honestly during the past 6 years I never planned or worked any sketch in advance it didn’t resonated with me because the goal of this challenge for me was to improvise and get creative and inspired day by day! I only got my supplies ready in advance! But that’s just me! Do what is the best and resonates for you and most importantly have fun and create daily!
Please if you do participate share your plans or ideas I would love to read! If you’re a beginner and have questions leave it in the comment section. I would be happy to respond!
Have a great weekend! And Happy Inktober!
©Copyright Carolina Russo – carolinarussoart.com
“Courage and Confidence” Necklace: A New Jewelry Design Release
A New Release!
Today I am happy to announce the launch of my latest necklace design, the “Courage and Confidence” necklace. This stunning piece is a unique and empowering addition to my jewelry collection, crafted with natural Red Coral and infused with spiritual and healing benefits.
The Design
The “Courage and Confidence” necklace is a new take on my previous design the Turquoise “Warrior” necklace, now reimagined with vibrant Red Coral. This handmade piece features a harmonious blend of materials, each chosen for their beauty and significance:
- Red Coral: Known for its bold color and powerful energy.
- Amazonite: A soothing stone that calms the soul.
- Shungite: Believed to protect against negative energies.
- Smoky Quartz Crystal: Grounds and stabilizes.
- Buffalo Bone Pipe beads: A nod to the Native American tradition and heritage.
- Vintage Wooden and Brass beads: Adding rustic charm and elegance.
- Leather Cord: For durability and an earthy touch.
Each necklace is carefully handcrafted, ensuring that no two pieces are exactly alike. The adjustable length allows for versatility, making it a perfect fit for any outfit or occasion. Additionally, every necklace is Reiki infused, imbuing it with positive energy and intentions.
The Spiritual Meaning and Healing Benefits of Red Coral
Red Coral is more than just a beautiful gemstone; it carries deep spiritual significance and a wealth of healing benefits.
- Courage and Confidence: As the name suggests, Red Coral is known to instill courage and boost confidence in the wearer. Its vibrant red hue is a symbol of life force, passion, and vitality.
- Emotional Healing: This stone is believed to calm emotions and bring inner peace. It helps in overcoming fear, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy, empowering the wearer to face challenges head-on.
- Protection and Prosperity: Historically, Red Coral has been used as a talisman for protection against evil spirits and bad energies. It is also associated with attracting prosperity and success.
- Physical Benefits: Red Coral is thought to aid in blood circulation, boost energy levels, and strengthen the bones.
- Red Color: the color red of the Coral is deeply grounding, connecting the wearer to the earth and providing a stable foundation for courage and confidence to flourish.
- Root Chakra : The color red is associated with the Root Chakra, the first of the seven primary energy centers in our body, located at the base of the spine. This chakra is believed to provide grounding energy, stability, and a strong foundation for overall well-being.
By wearing the “Courage and Confidence” necklace, you not only adorn yourself with a beautiful piece of high vibrational jewelry but also invite positive energy, protection, and a sense of empowerment into your life.
A Statement of Empowerment
This necklace is more than just an accessory; it’s a statement of strength, energy and self-assurance.
Explore the power of Red Coral and embrace your inner warrior with my latest creation. Each necklace is made with love and intention and infused with Reiki energy, ready to inspire and uplift you on your journey.
Thank you for joining me in celebrating this exciting new release. I can’t wait for you to experience the beauty and benefits of this empowering necklace.
Pre Order yours here!
Claim your “Courage and Confidence” necklace in the comments leave a message! This design would be made only occasionally. I craft only few necklaces each time. If you would like one, don’t miss this rare opportunity pre order yours and Contact me for details!
- Price: $70 Shipped in the US Please add $4 Fees for Good and Services
I do ship Internationally price quote is calculated based on your location, please contact me prior placing your order, - Payment via PayPal is made when you order, just click here and you would be prompted to PayPal
Disclaimer
Please note that this necklace is available exclusively as a made-to-order item. Each piece is unique due to the natural variations in the shape, size, and color of the gemstones. Handcrafted by me using ethically sourced materials, this necklace features an adjustable leather cord with sliding knots, allowing you to customize the length to suit your style. The natural elements ensure that every necklace is truly one of a kind.
Thank you for supporting my Art!
If you have any additional questions please, Contact me!
Always Shine your Light!
©Copyright Carolina Russo – carolinarussoart.com
Exclusive Reiki Infused Warrior Necklace: Limited Commissions Open!”
COMMISSIONS OPEN only few spots!
I’m thrilled to announce that I have a few exclusive spots available for “The Warrior Necklace,” a A turquoise gem Reiki infused, made to order Jewelry Design!
This necklace is one of my most beloved jewelry designs, created a few years ago. Part of my Ethnic and Tribal Collection, it’s uniquely hand crafted with natural elements for Power, Strength, Balance, and Beauty. I named it “Warrior” because of the ancient and beautiful turquoise stone, one of my favorite. Turquoise is known for its protective energy and was used by ancient warriors for protection, power, strength, and courage. Ancient civilizations honored turquoise as the Universal Stone that is believed to have many benefits and healing properties. Promote inner piece is calming help to balance emotions, great during meditation.
This necklace is stunning to wear and complements a variety of outfits. It can be a standalone statement piece or combined and layered with other necklaces I create. Inspired by Native American Indian and Southwest designs, it embodies a timeless aesthetic. I made one for myself, and it has become my favorite go-to piece.
As a Reiki Master, I love to infuse my watercolor paintings and also my jewelry with energy for alignment, balance, and protection, or I can customize the infusion to meet your specific needs.
This is a Pre Order! Reserve your spot now! Claim your necklace in the comments! These are released only occasionally and I craft only few each time. If you would like one don’t miss out this rare opportunity claim yours and Contact me for details!
- Price: $70 Shipped in the US
I do ship Internationally price quote is calculated based on your location contact me prior placing your order. - Payment via PayPal is made when you claim just click here and you would be prompted to PayPal This necklace is only available as made to order. Each one is unique due to the natural variations of the gemstones in shape, size and color. Hand crafted by me using ethically sourced turquoise, agate, crystals, vintage wooden beads, buffalo bone pipes and beads, vintage brass beads. The adjustable leather cord adds to its versatility can be worn long or shorter it has sliding knots to adjust the length that best suits you. Because of the natural elements, every necklace is one of a kind.
Reserve your spot and wear a beautiful and unique piece inspired by the ancients and infused with energy!
If you have any additional questions, Contact me!
Always Shine your Light!
©Copyright Carolina Russo – carolinarussoart.com
Happy 4th July USA
US✨ Happy 4th of July! ❤️
To all my American followers and friends and to everyone that celebrate this day! Wishing you a beautiful and peaceful day filled with joy, celebration, and cherished moments with loved ones. May your day sparkle brightly!
This old painting is a favorite of mine, and I love sharing it with you every year on this special day.
©Copyright Carolina Russo – carolinarussoart.com
New Graphic Releases in my Redbubble Shop!
Exciting Update: New Graphic Releases added in my Redbubble Shop!
Hey there everyone,
I’m beyond thrilled to announce a fantastic update to my 
Redbubble Shop – I recently decided to release a collection of brand-new graphics created from my watercolor paintings and illustrations that are sure to add a splash of creativity to your life!
Whether you’re in the mood for whimsical illustrations, words, mystical or nature-inspired designs, there’s something special waiting for you.
From vibrant florals to mystical figures, each graphic has been carefully designed with love and attention to detail. Whether you’re treating yourself with a T-shirt like the baseball one in the photo that my beautiful friend is wearing or a hoodie, a coffee mug or searching for the perfect gift for a loved one, my diverse range of designs has you covered.
And the best part?
My graphics are available on a wide range of beautiful products, from clothing and accessories to home decor and stationery. So you can showcase your unique style from your favorite Artist wherever you go!
Head over to Carolina Russo Redbubble Shop to explore the latest additions and find the perfect piece to brighten up your day. Your support means the world to me, and I can’t wait to see how you incorporate my designs into your life.
❤❤❤ Plus, a little Side Note – Redbubble is currently having a Sale up to 40% Off, so it’s the perfect time to snag some new goodies! No matter where you are in the World they ship Worldwide!
Thank you for being a part of my creative journey! And if you have any question Contact me!
Shop link: Carolina Russo Redbubble
Happy Sunday and happy shopping if you do, thank you! Don’t forget to sign up to the Redbubble Newsletter to stay up to date with Sale days and specials discounts! A special thanks to my Crochet Artist friend @creations_by_yrsa for sending me this photo wearing one of the shirts with my new graphics!
Have a wonderful Sunday and coming week! ❤
Thank You!
©Copyright Carolina Russo – carolinarussoart.com
Carolina Russo Art 
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