Dash of Inspiration – September 26, 2011

A Dash of Inspiration, A Cup of Creativity by Doreen

Year of the Dragon

Well, if you’ve been keeping an eye on Corrie’s 4-6 Month Lead-In Holiday Card Calendar on the GCU Community Blog, then you know those of us who wish to sell cards for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations should be creating them now.  2012 is the year of the Dragon . . . now how fun is that?  So, I’ve pulled some resources together to inspire you and hopefully found a little something for everyone!

To begin, I always like do a little research on the holiday or occasion before I begin a design; for example . . . What colors and symbols are traditional?  How do they express their greetings and well wishes? Here are a couple of links to help you understand the Chinese New Year celebrations.

Chinese New Year Traditions and Symbols

Chinese New Year Celebrations Around the World

For those of you like me who can’t draw a dragon, here are some great Dragon goodies for your toolboxes:

Photoshop Users: Chinese Dragon Brushes by Hawksmont

Image by Elledeegee, Blue Girl Graphics

GIMP Users: Dragon Brushes by Gimp Craft

Paint Shop Pro Users:  Dragon Brushes by Glass Prism

For those talented artists who can create their own dragons, but have never tried it before . . . some Dragon Painting Tutorials!

How to Color a Dragon Tutorial in Photoshop

Drawing & Painting Tutorials for Chinese Dragons on YouTube

Go ahead, spread your dragon wings and create a Chinese New Year card for 2012!