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: Winter Wonderland
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
The Spiritual Significance of the Pinecone
Hello beautiful souls the Holidays are near and today I wanted to write about the spiritual meaning of pinecones as they are so used to decorate our homes especially during this season and at Christmas! Well there are very special meanings behind a pinecone!
The pinecone is a powerful and ancient symbol of spiritual awakening, transformation, and higher consciousness. Its unique shape and intricate design have inspired deep reverence in cultures and traditions across the globe, offering profound lessons for those who take the time to connect with its meaning.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the pinecone is its resemblance to the Pineal Gland, often referred to as the “Third eye.” This small, pinecone-shaped gland in the human brain has long been associated with intuition, spiritual insight, and the awakening of higher consciousness. Many spiritual teachings suggest that activating the pineal gland helps us connect to our inner wisdom and align with universal energy, making the pinecone a natural representation of this inner gateway.
The spiral pattern of the pinecone’s scales reflects sacred geometry, a visual representation of the divine order and harmony found throughout the Universe. This pattern symbolizes growth, transformation, and the interconnectedness of all things a reminder that we are part of a much larger cosmic design.
Throughout history, the pinecone has appeared in art, architecture, and spiritual practices as a symbol of enlightenment. In ancient Egypt, the staff of Osiris featured a pinecone at its tip, symbolizing immortality and spiritual ascension. Similarly, in Hinduism, the pinecone-like shape of deities’ headdresses is thought to represent the awakened third eye. Even in Western traditions, the pinecone appears in Christian art and the design of the Vatican’s Court of the Pinecone, representing eternal life and divine connection.
Beyond its symbolism, the pinecone’s life cycle carries a meaningful lesson. It endures through harsh winters, holding tightly to its seeds until the conditions are right for new growth. This resilience and patience remind us to trust the timing of our own transformations and to nurture the seeds of potential within ourselves.
In everyday life, the pinecone can be a grounding and meditative tool. Holding one or placing it in your sacred space can serve as a gentle reminder to seek inner balance, stay open to spiritual growth, and honor the interconnectedness of nature. How beautiful!
The next time you come across a pinecone, take a moment to reflect on its quiet wisdom. It’s not just a part of nature; it’s a symbol of resilience, transformation, and the infinite potential that resides within us all. Find your pinecone and keep it in a special place in your home!
“Pinecone”
My watercolor painting featured on this post represents and symbolize all of these special meanings! Is included in my Winter and Christmas Art Collection available as Limited Edition Prints hand enhanced and Reiki energy infused to enhance your wellbeing!
If you love my Art please visit my ETSY Shop! I have a Sale going on everything is 20% off until December 3, 2024 if you have any questions Contact me!
❤ Warmest wishes!
©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
Merry Christmas!
Your heart knows the way.
Run in that direction.
– Rumi
Thank you for your support and for following my artistic journey it means so much to me!
Follow me on >> Instagram
©Copyright Carolina Russo – carolinarussoart.com
New Release: Snow Queen
New Release Christmas Theme Art 2023
This is last of the five new released drawings created last December 2022 during the “12 Day Winter Draw” Art challenge which the same challenge will start new again tomorrow December 1st and last for 12 days until December 12. During these 12 days I would be creating new Christmas Art for the next year 2024!
Today New Release is : Snow Queen
Prints of her as never been for sale before! Limited Edition Prints are now available for quick a purchase here on my Blog, see the PayPal button at bottom page.
Or find the whole Christmas Collection and much more in my ETSY SHOP
Painting Title: “Snow Queen”
Limited Edition Prints 1st run of 20 prints signed and numbered size 8×10″
Price: $40
Shipping: Included in US
NOTE: Each print is “Hand Enhanced” with white and highlighted with a subtle touch of silver inks. It is like a semi original (you don’t receive just a normal print but it has my hand work on it!) Print is signed and printed one by one in studio by me on a beautiful Fine Art paper includes Certificate of Authenticity.
If you want to make a difference and support me directly please purchase on the Blog via PayPal.❤ For any questions Contact me!
IMPORTANT CUTOFF DATES:
Within USA last day to order Prints would be December 12 the earlier the best!
I ship everything with USPS First Class with Tracking if you need faster let me know.
Thank you so much for following my Art and support me as an artist. If you share or purchase know that your support is truly precious and means the world to me!
Wishing you all a wonderful and Happy Holiday Season!
Shine your light!
©Copyright Carolina Russo – carolinarussoart.com
Title: Snow Queen
Limited Edition Fine Art Print run of 20 Prints numbered and Hand Enhanced Size 8×10 inch
$40.00
New Release: Woodland
New Release Christmas Theme Art 2023
I am releasing five new drawings created last December 2022 during the “12 Day Winter Draw” Art challenge! I have been posting the new drawings one at the time check my previous posts to see the others, These prints has never been for sale before. Limited Edition Prints available for quick a purchase here on my Blog, see the PayPal button at bottom page.
Or find the whole Christmas Collection and much more in my ETSY SHOP
Painting Title: “Woodland”
Limited Edition Prints 1st run of 20 prints signed and numbered size 8×10″
Price: $40
Shipping: Included in US
NOTE: Each print is “Hand Enhanced” with white and highlighted with a subtle touch of silver inks. It is like a semi original (you don’t receive just a normal print but it has my hand work on it!) Print is signed and printed one by one in studio by me on a beautiful Fine Art paper includes Certificate of Authenticity.
If you want to make a difference and support me directly please purchase on the Blog via PayPal.❤ For any questions Contact me!
IMPORTANT CUTOFF DATES:
Within USA last day to order Prints would be December 12 the earlier the best!
I ship everything with USPS First Class with Tracking if you need faster let me know.
Thank you so much for following my Art and support me as an artist. If you share or purchase know that your support is truly precious and means the world to me!
Wishing you all a wonderful and Happy Holiday Season!
Shine your light!
©Copyright Carolina Russo – carolinarussoart.com
Title: Woodland
Limited Edition Fine Art Print run of 20 Prints numbered and Hand Enhanced Size 8×10 inch
$40.00
New Release: Christmas Fairy
New Release Christmas Theme Art 2023
This year I am releasing five new drawings created last December 2022 during the “12 Day Winter Draw” Art challenge! I will post the new drawings one at the time during the coming days, These prints has never been available for sale before. This is the Official Release of the Limited Edition Prints, now available for a quick purchase here on my Blog, see the PayPal button at bottom page.
Or find the whole Christmas Collection and much more in my ETSY SHOP
Painting Title: “Christmas Fairy”
Limited Edition Prints 1st run of 20 prints signed and numbered size 8×10 inch.
Price: $40
Shipping: Included in US
NOTE: Each print is “Hand Enhanced” with black, white and highlighted with silver, gold inks. It is like a semi original (you don’t receive just a normal print but it has my hand work on it!) Print is signed and printed one by one in studio by me on a beautiful Fine Art paper includes Certificate of Authenticity.
If you want to make a difference and support me directly please purchase on the Blog via PayPal.❤ For any questions Contact me!
IMPORTANT CUTOFF DATES:
Within USA last day to order Prints would be December 12 the earlier the best!
I ship everything with USPS First Class with Tracking if you need faster let me know.
Thank you so much for following my Art and support me as an artist. If you share or purchase know that your support is truly precious and means the world to me!
Wishing you all a wonderful and Happy Holiday Season!
Shine your light!
©Copyright Carolina Russo – carolinarussoart.com
Title: Christmas Fairy
Limited Edition Fine Art Print run of 20 Prints numbered and Hand Enhanced Size 8×10 inch
$40.00
Carolina Russo Art 
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