Abundance preview, Day 3: Tree of Life

 

We’re sharing a stamp set today that has roots that go back to the beginning of time — a theme I’ve been wanting to explore for some time, because the imagery that is created in its honor is always so richly colorful, filled with lush flowers and fruits, and just totally fascinating. This theme is the Tree of Life!

The Tree of Life concept appears in nearly every culture and every religion, in folklore and mythology, and nearly always symbolizes life and abundance. Branches decoratively curving, heavy with fruit, lush leaves, birds and creatures galore — a hub of activity and source of giving.

Before I share previews of my new set and let you lose with the Bloom Brigade, I want to share a few images of beautiful artworks dedicated to the Tree of Life.

Early 17th century English needlework depicting 12 different fruits on the same tree, with flowers and animals of every stripe.

Ancient Egyptian design on papyrus.

Traditional Indian mithila painting on fabric.

Embroidery design for bed tapestries by William Morris’ daughter, May, which includes every flight of fancy, and greatly influenced my design.

Gustav Klimt’s famous Tree of Life frieze

Sonia Patwardhan’s Tree of Life work done in the ancient Indian Kalamkari method of painting on cloth and dying the colors directing into cloth.

Are you inspired yet?? I know I feel charged up just looking at all of that vitality — so many interpretations, so many ways to bring this theme into full color. The possibilities are endless (and you’ll see that the Bloom Brigade’s creativity is endless as well, WOW what COOL cards they’ve made to share with us!!) Introducing my newest clear stamp set: Tree of Life.

I think you’ll have more fun than you know what to do with using this set. It’s just a FUN one to work on! The leaves are shaded such that you’ll know exactly where to put your shadows and highlights — which really brings this design to life. I’ve included extra critters, more flowers, and plenty of pretty sentiments that underscore the theme of the image. The image itself is rather large, so whether you color the entire piece or crop into it, you will have a very detailed and dynamic creation.

If you don’t believe me, come see what the Bloomies have made with Tree of Life — you are gonna love these cards — I feel that I could look at them for hours!! You’ll find that you can make an outstanding card even without coloring in the stamp design. Which of our designers tried this approach? You’ll have to go peek for yourself:

Allison Cope

Christine Okken

Cindy Lawrence

Julie Koerber

Katie Sims

Stacy Morgan

Tosha Leyendekker

Thank you marvelous Bloomies — what exquisite works you have been making for this week — TOTALLY AWESOME STUFF! Just when I think it can’t get any better, they go and blow the lid off. But wait — you haven’t even seen what we have in store for TOMORROW!!! See you then.