tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78974527310273273752023-11-16T04:17:57.362-08:00Cristina's AngelsSexy Art, Etc. by Cristina McAllisterCristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-58161651982722295292009-10-28T09:08:00.000-07:002009-10-28T10:13:27.689-07:00Video Portfolio Collaboration<embed src="http://blip.tv/play/hLgAgarQDwI%2Em4v" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="302" width="480"></embed><br /><br />Check out this awesome Cristina's Angels video portfolio - put together by my fabulous friend DaBomb!<br /><br />I won it by entering her running blog contest on <a href="http://www.glamourbomb.com/">Glamour Bomb</a>. Simply leave a comment on <a href="http://www.glamourbomb.com/2009/10/new-contest-plus-yummy-lollys-free.html">this pos</a>t and you'll be entered into a drawing to win a spot as her Featured Artist and a custom video portfolio of your own work!<br />You can also commission her to put together a video portfolio, if you don't want to rely on the luck of the draw.<br /><br />DaBomb is a powerhouse of creative energy. Beyond her Glamour Bomb blog (which features art, fashion, crafts and more), she produces <a href="http://burncast.blogspot.com/">Burncast</a>, the popular podcast that explores the Burning man Community (drink!), makes awesome playawear, hats, dreadfalls and other funky accessories, as well as selling vintage items through her <a href="http://shop.glamourbomb.com/">ArtFire</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=9048">Etsy shop</a>s.<br /><br />The delicious music was created by another talented friend of mine, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1807501238&ref=profile#/pages/Pumpkin/108216352526?ref=sgm">Pumpkin</a> (a.k.a Los Angeles DJ Nick.the.Neck). I knew his brand of sexy, moody electronic grooviness would work perfectly for my Angels.<br />I told him I wanted something like "a cross between the sultry stuff on Massive Attack's Mezzanine album and sassy cabaret striptease music".<br />I couldn't really imagine what that would sound like, exactly, but it seemed like a good concept. He whipped together this track with astonishing speed, and it was perfect!<br /><br />You can hear more of Pumpkin's original music <a href="http://soundcloud.com/pumpkin">here</a>. He is also involved in a bunch of other amazing creative endeavors, including the unique performance troupe <a href="http://wanderingmarionettes.net/">The Wandering Marionettes</a>, L.A.'s own freaky circus; <a href="http://www.cirqueberzerk.com/#/circus">Cirque Berzerk</a>, and underground DJ collective and party people <a href="http://www.pocketunderground.com/">Pocket Underground</a>.<br /><br /><br />Learn More About DaBomb:<br /><a href="http://www.glamourbomb.com/2009/10/featured-artist-cristina-mcallister.html?utm_medium=pingfm&utm_source=twitterfeed">http://www.glamourbomb.com/2009/10/featured-artist-cristina-mcallister.html?utm_medium=pingfm&utm_source=twitterfeed</a><br /><a href="http://shop.glamourbomb.com/">http://shop.glamourbomb.com/</a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=9048">http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=9048</a><br /><br />Learn More About Pumpkin:<br /><a href="http://soundcloud.com/pumpkin">http://soundcloud.com/pumpkin</a><br /><a href="http://www.myspace.com/pumpkinsounds">http://www.myspace.com/pumpkinsounds</a><br /><a href="http://wanderingmarionettes.net/">http://wanderingmarionettes.net/</a><br /><a href="http://www.cirqueberzerk.com/#/circus">http://www.cirqueberzerk.com/#/circus</a><br /><a href="http://www.pocketunderground.com/">http://www.pocketunderground.com/</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-73572667762420414032009-10-11T15:05:00.000-07:002009-10-11T21:01:35.704-07:00Introducing: Noel - A Brand New Holiday Angel!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmjFxYFekZX9rBeoitYlJ3p-HsjqAh5a1OUU1WF3_bggjLYTHsrqp35-7Dmb7W7sHy54Uhg0Wr_JUK7xv8sCVryVWUfN0j3iBHJNvqbh_4vf4q4Q3nvm3NtbfEdneFQwvmPWzqYJGm7Y/s1600-h/MistletoeAngelCards.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 227px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmjFxYFekZX9rBeoitYlJ3p-HsjqAh5a1OUU1WF3_bggjLYTHsrqp35-7Dmb7W7sHy54Uhg0Wr_JUK7xv8sCVryVWUfN0j3iBHJNvqbh_4vf4q4Q3nvm3NtbfEdneFQwvmPWzqYJGm7Y/s320/MistletoeAngelCards.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391547867510702834" border="0" /></a>Bringing warm holiday cheer to the most wonderful time of the year, Noel is a flirty Angel with a Christmas kiss for anyone who steps up under her mistletoe.<br />Available now on apparel and greeting cards. Order now to get them in time for the holidays!<br /><a href="http://cristinasangels.deco-apparel.com/designs/design?d=198402013">Buy Noel Apparel</a><br /><a href="http://fineartamerica.com/showgreetingcard.php?id=582298">Buy Noel Cards </a><br /><br />Cards are blank inside, or order them with a personalized message printed inside!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" >SALE on Noel Cards - ONE WEEK ONLY! </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Until October 19th, save $2.50 on a pack of 25 cards - perfect for sending holiday greetings to your fabulous friends! (Sale price: $47.50. Normal price: $50.00).</span><br /><br /><a href="http://fineartamerica.com/showgreetingcard.php?id=582298">http://fineartamerica.com/showgreetingcard.php?id=582298</a><br /><a href="http://cristinasangels.deco-apparel.com/designs/design?d=198402013">http://cristinasangels.deco-apparel.com/designs/design?d=198402013</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-42606916550131045762009-10-09T14:31:00.000-07:002009-10-09T14:54:43.946-07:00Get Your Holiday Flirt On...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzqAgdXbVrw1JcDpu6ESW0vs94W73PLtowTXP3asOghjgglUpoExNBDO0ypidlYtjs86UbNjTjbGXCqf8SNuJ4-aksmtRvzVaIWSrNlud7PBy1XOgHAUpdPA1R4vr_WHQ6RMldllqyD6U/s1600-h/MissMistletoeTshirt.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 228px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzqAgdXbVrw1JcDpu6ESW0vs94W73PLtowTXP3asOghjgglUpoExNBDO0ypidlYtjs86UbNjTjbGXCqf8SNuJ4-aksmtRvzVaIWSrNlud7PBy1XOgHAUpdPA1R4vr_WHQ6RMldllqyD6U/s320/MissMistletoeTshirt.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390719557262123986" border="0" /></a>...with a sassy Miss Mistletoe T.<br />This flirty Christmas fairy represents the tradition of kissing under the mistletoe, an ancient custom that symbolizes love, friendship and goodwill. It's also an excellent excuse to steal a smooch!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq00yv4HftQdzY6RTpe_0LLeDSWweaTwG9iGkvc55uFPMZzq-1k7r9dB10C8zHaE050IGSh90q4VaYUGwgnGKJ9c_VnIxkTR4WKgFamE4_m2noIVIIvYf1jhav7DO3re-wRS5OWRE9jW8/s1600-h/New2006MissMistletoeBlog.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 251px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq00yv4HftQdzY6RTpe_0LLeDSWweaTwG9iGkvc55uFPMZzq-1k7r9dB10C8zHaE050IGSh90q4VaYUGwgnGKJ9c_VnIxkTR4WKgFamE4_m2noIVIIvYf1jhav7DO3re-wRS5OWRE9jW8/s320/New2006MissMistletoeBlog.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390716507992112450" border="0" /></a>Order now to get yours in time to wear for the holiday party season!<br /><a href="http://cristinasangels.deco-apparel.com/shop?c=84553">Buy Miss Mistletoe Apparel</a><br /><a href="http://cristinasangels.deco-apparel.com/shop?c=84553">http://cristinasangels.deco-apparel.com/shop?c=84553</a><br /><br />*Tip - you can choose whichever color you want from the shirt color selection!<br />* Website URL Watermark is not on the actual shirt art.Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-57317673407833171132009-09-28T15:55:00.000-07:002009-09-28T15:58:08.832-07:00Behold: UNICORNDOG!!!<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I've got a new t-shirt design in the running at Threadless!<br /><br /></span></span>Please help increase my chances of getting my T-shirt design printed (and getting paid $2000 for it!) by following the link below, scoring it and making a positive comment, if you are so inspired.<br /><br /> The best score you can give it is "$5", which means you select the 5 to the right of the image, and check the "I'd buy it as" box next to that.<br /><h3 class="UIIntentionalStory_Message" ft="{"type":"msg"}"><span style="font-family: georgia;font-size:100%;" ><br />Your support is MUCH appreciated!</span><span class="UIStory_Message"><span class="text_exposed_show"></span></span></h3><br /><a href="http://www.threadless.com/submission/232788/Unicorndog?streetteam=Cristina+McAllister" title="Unicorndog - Threadless T-shirts, Nude No More"><img src="http://www.threadless.com/subbanner/232788/banner1.png" width="220" height="119" border="0" alt="Unicorndog - Threadless T-shirts, Nude No More" /></a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-6326840885785986952009-09-23T15:57:00.000-07:002009-09-23T16:35:44.253-07:00Original Art FOR SALE!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.cristinasangels.com/CMMariePage.htm"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbYU3gtG2fJc8Rf4GSxg8T8SC16nj1j5rLSm73kcXUc1g7K7_7alEbIlqHrd9ztKrb8QU3d32lDyztD0z9yLugfEqLiP2aZ4TqMIl80rjuEa9Ez2FTA3wxW9ZI6ma2hWy_vdTHpNIgosA/s320/Marie.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384803933431871458" border="0" /></a>Before I began my Cristina's Angels series of digital pin-ups, I explored the notion of sexy angels in my "Erotic Angels" series: original acrylic paintings embellished with sparkly sequins, jewels and 3-dimensional mosaic elements made from recycled cardboard.<br /><br />The inspiration for this series grew out of my experiments with integrating embellishments and textural elements into my paintings.<br /> Early Christian iconography often features the addition of precious stones, gilt and ornate borders that create a sumptuous effect that glorifies the subject matter – indicating divinity and holiness to be revered.<br /> Combining these hallmarks of religious art with the sensuous female figures common in my work creates an interesting juxtaposition – a blending of the “sacred” and the “profane”. This seemingly incongruous pairing suggests a divine aspect in female sexuality.<br /> The saintly halos and angelic wings transform these bold and sultry pinups from mere sex objects into sacred beings worthy of reverence. <br /><br />Half of these paintings sold during their debut show, and I still have a few left. I'm offering them now at discounted prices.<br /><br />"Marie", above, is a vision in perfect pink with lush powdered wig, roses and plumes, lace-trimmed corset, and sexy striped stockings!<br /><br />This one-of-a-kind original painting measures 11 3/8” x 14 1/4.<br /> Acrylic painting on hardboard, embellished with sequins, acrylic jewels and collage mosaic. Ready to hang- no frame required!<br /><br />To purchase, simply click the link below of the image above and use the "Buy Now" button to make a secure purchase through PayPal.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cristinasangels.com/CMMariePage.htm">http://www.cristinasangels.com/CMMariePage.htm</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-22471973478252791612009-09-23T09:56:00.000-07:002009-09-23T10:59:55.207-07:00Aranwen Jewelry<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwsnKr-HyEgoRaJqzYkxxWDRY3VMIhjoR-4E8inQKn5o4yVVIytn2vKR9G5ygM56lPe1r8wpaGqlQDgEsPvLCVeKzuSfjyWicCbGqxOeZEEgC2xqSQaSWVgIEPEN1jxXFW7CcwTdV_bMU/s1600-h/Aranwen4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 311px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwsnKr-HyEgoRaJqzYkxxWDRY3VMIhjoR-4E8inQKn5o4yVVIytn2vKR9G5ygM56lPe1r8wpaGqlQDgEsPvLCVeKzuSfjyWicCbGqxOeZEEgC2xqSQaSWVgIEPEN1jxXFW7CcwTdV_bMU/s320/Aranwen4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384719705601349042" border="0" /></a>Vicki, from Athens, Greece, is the creative mind behind <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Aranwen</span> Jewelry. She offers a wide selections of adornments, including antique-fusion-style necklaces and chokers, earrings and finger rings, cuff links and brooches....but her most stunning works (IMHO!) are her unique cuff watches.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivdOG1toPmzMubPsGmL1FOCsYtm8othyq9Cvzm6Rkl63Y5bgQDOkwC0ZAydtDVuDppIMtAuHRMuUECyxzLhC8_Fd-Vkr4I8wsAfU4q842hymS_PGz4Q9YBmqPhw5YN-EYva_Sf0vUOrp4/s1600-h/Aranwen3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 307px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivdOG1toPmzMubPsGmL1FOCsYtm8othyq9Cvzm6Rkl63Y5bgQDOkwC0ZAydtDVuDppIMtAuHRMuUECyxzLhC8_Fd-Vkr4I8wsAfU4q842hymS_PGz4Q9YBmqPhw5YN-EYva_Sf0vUOrp4/s320/Aranwen3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384713083134702834" border="0" /></a>Each <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">adjustable</span> cuff watch features a working clock face (with replaceable battery) surrounded by gloriously rich detailing in lead-free silver-plated or antiqued brass. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDX3MhhGxwR89hwqxROnyNXloM5MM5M-6YMjXCH2ZduyCzpHNDPM7uaQO1YsVmNGj_t46JQr8pqAmZJmS_w4sbJ6VF_w1toGNDIk0skm9M3pZvijMECCFScHX6Td66hD9xnQQrNsM3LTY/s1600-h/Aranwen5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 282px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDX3MhhGxwR89hwqxROnyNXloM5MM5M-6YMjXCH2ZduyCzpHNDPM7uaQO1YsVmNGj_t46JQr8pqAmZJmS_w4sbJ6VF_w1toGNDIk0skm9M3pZvijMECCFScHX6Td66hD9xnQQrNsM3LTY/s320/Aranwen5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384722813145418274" border="0" /></a>Swirling <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">scrollwork</span>, graceful floral accents, delightful dragonflies, coy cupids, regal wings - accented with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Swarovski</span> crystals, pearls and Czech glass beads - all of these elements are harmoniously arranged to create ornate, yet elegant pieces that are suitable for both ladies and (flamboyantly inclined!) gentlemen.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPoEZT_4dAmDbmO7IzQ9pJXcjdjlOl_5mchkT9KB_4bg1jLtWuMDnwV9K_UUROs54PqA9qvv1-ibk1GdFxgsT4X1gW_YJAyaCfs94Dm_V3Gohom_LRHdMdbMvDXXj2DBNz-Ar0jd9JhkA/s1600-h/Aranwen1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 296px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPoEZT_4dAmDbmO7IzQ9pJXcjdjlOl_5mchkT9KB_4bg1jLtWuMDnwV9K_UUROs54PqA9qvv1-ibk1GdFxgsT4X1gW_YJAyaCfs94Dm_V3Gohom_LRHdMdbMvDXXj2DBNz-Ar0jd9JhkA/s320/Aranwen1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384713057910744834" border="0" /></a>Check out more <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Aranwen</span> Jewelry designs at <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">their</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Etsy</span> shop:<br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5451132">http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5451132</a><br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">DeviantArt</span> Gallery:<br /><a href="http://aranwen.deviantart.com/gallery/">http://aranwen.deviantart.com/gallery/</a><br /><br />Blog:<a href="http://aranwen.blogspot.com/"><br />http://aranwen.blogspot.com/</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-39767164124006720772009-09-18T13:12:00.001-07:002009-09-18T13:30:28.516-07:00Just in Time for Talk Like A Pirate Day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFkdyxKoXJpYtVHkNNAiYPHgLrTSHDUD2yOXLONA19ofH3eRQCukqL0pJTHABIl913ymIl4IfHp9i9vy5l9xKXxGxJUXEFwh5hbIBFnN5MORv5LWZnN4vJJ-TyIWpbaESUP_XH6yGj5PQ/s1600-h/PirateAngelT.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFkdyxKoXJpYtVHkNNAiYPHgLrTSHDUD2yOXLONA19ofH3eRQCukqL0pJTHABIl913ymIl4IfHp9i9vy5l9xKXxGxJUXEFwh5hbIBFnN5MORv5LWZnN4vJJ-TyIWpbaESUP_XH6yGj5PQ/s320/PirateAngelT.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382903508037905234" border="0" /></a><br />Aaaaahhhrrr, Mateys!<br />Tomorrow be <a href="http://www.talklikeapirate.com/piratehome.html">International Talk Like A Pirate Day</a>, and I be celebratin' by introducin' new apparel featurin' our own piratical pin-up Angel, the timber-shiverin' Lady Claire.<br />This flamboyant filly has buckles to swash and a bodacious booty, and she's now available on a <a href="http://cristinasangels.deco-apparel.com/shop?c=80818">treasure trove of fanciful finery</a> - T-shirts, tank tops, hoodies and more! Aaaahhhrrr!<br /><br /><a href="http://cristinasangels.deco-apparel.com/shop?c=80818">http://cristinasangels.deco-apparel.com/shop?c=80818</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-46366913125969140222009-09-17T13:53:00.000-07:002009-09-17T14:27:10.706-07:00NEW! Steampunk Apparel Design!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_iB6pR8LW46oI9ZRwZamKoGEvGhpXyoJp0VpCmYNAjRxMyb5tvGoO-vObctLL_rFXekEQGpMtPqLI95zD3EVU6fvvKUU_BdnboJCSSK72dan5G-BuDLDKnoFhjbDLsk9y9N65pKDNqkg/s1600-h/MadameRemmingtonsT.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 190px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_iB6pR8LW46oI9ZRwZamKoGEvGhpXyoJp0VpCmYNAjRxMyb5tvGoO-vObctLL_rFXekEQGpMtPqLI95zD3EVU6fvvKUU_BdnboJCSSK72dan5G-BuDLDKnoFhjbDLsk9y9N65pKDNqkg/s320/MadameRemmingtonsT.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382543069397350050" border="0" /></a><br />Introducing: Madame Remington's Corsetry & Armory - for the Formidable AND Fashionable Lady Adventurer!<br /><br />Express your feminine daring-do and your love of Steampunk style with this indubitably delightful design. Cleverly mimicking a vintage advertisement, it features a singularly lovely (and sturdy!) bullet-proof corset, with cunningly-fashioned built-in holsters for pistol and dagger, as well as a handsome ammunition bandolier and state-of-the-art aetheroptic goggles.<br />Everything the intrepid Lady Adventurer needs to boldly go where no man has dared go before, and look stunning all the while!<br /><br />Available now on <a href="http://cristinasangels.deco-apparel.com/shop?c=80703">T-shirts, tank tops, raglans, hoodies and more</a>!<br />I've chosen shirt colors that I think compliment the design, but you can choose whichever color you wish from the available selection.<br />More apparel options available on <a href="http://www.zazzle.com/madame_remingtons_corsetry_armory_tshirt-235134157777229612">zazzle</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cristinasangels.com/MadameRemingtonsT.htm">http://cristinasangels.deco-apparel.com/shop?c=80703</a><br /><a href="http://www.zazzle.com/madame_remingtons_corsetry_armory_tshirt-235134157777229612">http://www.zazzle.com/madame_remingtons_corsetry_armory_tshirt-235134157777229612</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-11795894246481503872009-09-15T15:23:00.001-07:002009-09-15T15:27:34.677-07:00"La Rosa" Apparel now Available<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBj35zJbpu0xhNrRjAjHC0_moUWwILcvv4fQmhRuurNq57rQteQMcB2PDgeHYU5hHjX9wqs7IaIzN4c22Xgyk6rtlsajbXDS5rW-wDhK61-BpO4loX4sGd_VXCfAx591A3AxugGCfcf_A/s1600-h/LaRosaTank.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBj35zJbpu0xhNrRjAjHC0_moUWwILcvv4fQmhRuurNq57rQteQMcB2PDgeHYU5hHjX9wqs7IaIzN4c22Xgyk6rtlsajbXDS5rW-wDhK61-BpO4loX4sGd_VXCfAx591A3AxugGCfcf_A/s320/LaRosaTank.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381823544139077954" border="0" /></a><br />Get T-shirts, tank tops, hoodies, raglans and long-sleeved shirts featuring this unique image - Exclusively from the Cristina's Angels <a href="http://cristinasangels.deco-apparel.com/designs/design?d=196163868">Heavenly Apparel Shop</a>!<br /><br /><a href="http://cristinasangels.deco-apparel.com/designs/design?d=196163868">http://cristinasangels.deco-apparel.com/designs/design?d=196163868</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-10439171995462523962009-09-14T12:21:00.000-07:002009-09-14T12:42:33.132-07:00NEW ANGEL: "La Rosa"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5JkVEeL0Sb8w1ERFOgiALFZ-7ZVnt9JhoYef10yiBs2OTDyYmlXclaOlcHY5DMGQKyfZ3yGObX1hNGXooKjL0sA5u3drVDEUhnoULInR3UYBfQW5rgByI-S1XDqfRZ5iXB_mOY7qn4g/s1600-h/LaRosa.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 183px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5JkVEeL0Sb8w1ERFOgiALFZ-7ZVnt9JhoYef10yiBs2OTDyYmlXclaOlcHY5DMGQKyfZ3yGObX1hNGXooKjL0sA5u3drVDEUhnoULInR3UYBfQW5rgByI-S1XDqfRZ5iXB_mOY7qn4g/s320/LaRosa.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381405626591207938" border="0" /></a>Introducing "La Rosa" - a bit of a departure from my usual "pin-up" genre. This Angel is more somber, but still seductive.<br />This image was inspired by my recent exploration of the Mexican folktale <a href="http://cristinasangels.blogspot.com/2009/08/la-llorona.html">La Llorona</a>, as well as a long-time appreciation of the <a href="http://diadelosmuertos.us/">Dia De Los Muertos</a> traditions.<br />I just love the look of calacas - the whimsical skull and skeletons, often embellished with colorful designs, that are associated with that celebration. I've also incorporated the elements of intricate Spanish lace and twining vines and roses.<br />"La Rosa" is now available as<a href="http://fineartamerica.com/featured/la-rosa-cristina-mcallister.html"> fine art prints and greeting cards</a>.<br />Apparel coming soon!<br /><br /><a href="http://fineartamerica.com/featured/la-rosa-cristina-mcallister.html">http://fineartamerica.com/featured/la-rosa-cristina-mcallister.html</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-48683295122918528922009-09-13T13:14:00.000-07:002009-09-14T13:07:55.709-07:00Swingin’ Pasties from Gothfox and some Nipply History<a style="font-family: georgia;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtG5JNIdjE3lNCfRqZ0uWPbN4RDzr6idHsAu-yXlO1zPr6deZMHlslwH8ZYDvelL9DXmveCxdVVzCZJss9sUAzkt2bAGFRhYYku_9yFxb0niTdCKtvC6LIdbTxwRjraDYVNe5pFpWCosA/s1600-h/Gothfox2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtG5JNIdjE3lNCfRqZ0uWPbN4RDzr6idHsAu-yXlO1zPr6deZMHlslwH8ZYDvelL9DXmveCxdVVzCZJss9sUAzkt2bAGFRhYYku_9yFxb0niTdCKtvC6LIdbTxwRjraDYVNe5pFpWCosA/s320/Gothfox2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381048405578189954" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:georgia;">…and I don’t mean the </span><a style="font-family: georgia;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pasty">meat pie</a><span style="font-family:georgia;"> kind!</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">Gothfox offers unique made-to-order nipple pasties, many of them featuring “easy-twirling” tassels (also handmade!), which are “*magically* placed in an eyelet” to facilitate smooth swinging.</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">Gothfox is owned and operated by Loretta Jackson, a retired burlesque performer with the experience and craftiness to design tempting, as well as sturdy pasties for personal and professional use.</span><a style="font-family: georgia;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjstmq95KYavw-0UtcGpQaDMYFP7NofOe9exhKfS7rsZcfmO0noU44yqkkyO8Pr7yAcbBcEskyda79qzCaZ9bts7_0Fd2OZlXzC1wZagMSKyuT4MjQm8pVZHeCOOy0hXBGroeC9XAFxpA/s1600-h/Gothfox1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 217px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjstmq95KYavw-0UtcGpQaDMYFP7NofOe9exhKfS7rsZcfmO0noU44yqkkyO8Pr7yAcbBcEskyda79qzCaZ9bts7_0Fd2OZlXzC1wZagMSKyuT4MjQm8pVZHeCOOy0hXBGroeC9XAFxpA/s320/Gothfox1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381048414860653378" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:georgia;">FYI- pasties are, indeed, pasted on - using </span><a style="font-family: georgia;" href="http://stageandtheatermakeup.com/bnarc.htm">spirit gum</a><span style="font-family:georgia;">, </span><a style="font-family: georgia;" href="http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=87517&catid=98583&aid=337953&aparam=duo_eyelash_adhesive_cl&CAWELAID=247881342">eyelash glue</a><span style="font-family:georgia;">, </span><a style="font-family: georgia;" href="http://www.allegromedical.com/ostomy-supplies-c529/skin-bond-latex-adhesive-p551823.html">latex adhesive</a><span style="font-family:georgia;"> or double-sided </span><a style="font-family: georgia;" href="http://www.toupeetape.com/">toupee tape</a><span style="font-family:georgia;"> or </span><a style="font-family: georgia;" href="http://www.hollywoodfashiontape.com/">Fashion</a><span style="font-family:georgia;">/</span><a style="font-family: georgia;" href="http://www.advantagewear.com/flash-tape.html">Flash tape</a><span style="font-family:georgia;">.</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">Please also note that Gothfox's pasties are not just one-size-fits-all. </span><a style="font-family: georgia;" href="http://gothfox.com/store/index.php?main_page=conditions">Four sizes</a><span style="font-family:georgia;">, gently cupped to conform to femenine curves, ensure a perfect fit for every body - measured not by the size of the breast, but the areola.</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">Gothfox offers a wide variety of shapes, colors and designs, embellished with rhinestones, feathers, shimmery/sparkly/patterned fabrics, bows, lace, trims, tassels and more!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">Of particular note are </span><a style="font-family: georgia;" href="http://gothfox.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=78">these gorgeous peacock-feathered</a><span style="font-family:georgia;"> pasties, the whimsical stripy-goth </span><a style="font-family: georgia;" href="http://gothfox.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=4">Beetle Juice</a><span style="font-family:georgia;"> pasties, the elegant </span><a style="font-family: georgia;" href="http://gothfox.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=48">Lo-Pan's Desire</a><span style="font-family:georgia;"> pasties, and the out-of-this-world</span><a style="font-family: georgia;" href="http://gothfox.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3&products_id=64"> Star Trek insignia</a><span style="font-family:georgia;"> pasties. Phasers set to stun, Captain!</span><br /><a style="font-family: georgia;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gz0adSi0tZY1gT4YqdGefa6i90kTvh8tpgVh0bLXFp4UUUhbTeSN_eQNqyRpbypfJL4As1lDqecBPASv11qkJha6leNwkNT0p5Ez4WYzoZW6HtzlUctn8POl_NOwaqgth4wxyuSqLGw/s1600-h/Gothfox3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gz0adSi0tZY1gT4YqdGefa6i90kTvh8tpgVh0bLXFp4UUUhbTeSN_eQNqyRpbypfJL4As1lDqecBPASv11qkJha6leNwkNT0p5Ez4WYzoZW6HtzlUctn8POl_NOwaqgth4wxyuSqLGw/s320/Gothfox3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381062538829812370" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:georgia;">So what's the deal with these saucy, sticky little tit-toppers, anyway? </span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">Well, I did a bit of poking around and here's what I found out.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">In early burlesque and striptease performance, revealing costumes were often preferred over blatant nudity. Dancers wearing strategically-placed seashells or sparkles enticed the audience with the promise of exposure, but left the details to their imaginations. Of course, topless shows were also popular, so whether to reveal or conceal the titillating tips of their tempting tatas was up to the performer.</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">In the Roaring 1920's, burlesque - a form of entertainment that included satire, performance art, bawdy comedy and erotically-charged dance performances, flourished. Around this time, the term "strip-tease" first appeared, and the art of tantalizing the audience by slowly removing clothing became increasingly popular.</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">This of course, freaked out the moralists, and restrictions were placed on just how much naked flesh could be shown. These codes made exposing the female nipple in public against the law, and pasties became a required costume element.</span><a style="font-family: georgia;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji7ZyEyzeNBSEArtNDV1C2FVu09iDgMGHD8pYle11VHnE8Bke-KpiDpf6ieXZSB8nhbi9jGzb2hKZJqcTFWAnBfIvqVpIHuUvyRjdln89J-9N2Ar0i_b-TK-Zbgck1i21lrK2Hkdt9Nnc/s1600-h/Pasties1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 305px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji7ZyEyzeNBSEArtNDV1C2FVu09iDgMGHD8pYle11VHnE8Bke-KpiDpf6ieXZSB8nhbi9jGzb2hKZJqcTFWAnBfIvqVpIHuUvyRjdln89J-9N2Ar0i_b-TK-Zbgck1i21lrK2Hkdt9Nnc/s320/Pasties1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381098671618583778" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:georgia;">This did little to dampen anyone's enthusiasm, however. </span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">The barely-there coverups merely served to enhance the mystique of the forbidden nipple.</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">Early stripper Carrie Finnell is credited with adding tassels to pasties and pioneering the art of tassel-twirling. Is is said that she had such control of her bountiful breasts that </span>she could twirl the tassels at different speeds and in different directions with such panache that her breasts were compared to propellers readying for lift-off.<span style="font-family:Verdana,Georgia,Times;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">Dancers skillfully turned what was supposed to be a limitation into yet another enticing weapon in their erotic entertainment arsenal. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">Nowadays, with toplessness once again prevalent in the "exotic dance" industry, pasties are generally considered old-fashioned. Luckily, with the recent explosion of neo-burlesque preformers, the true art of striptease is once again being appreciated, and pasties are an essential element of the seductive restraint that sets it apart from the less artful bump-and-grind of most modern stripping.</span>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-27631998687354130692009-09-13T11:45:00.000-07:002009-09-13T13:14:06.466-07:00Steampunk Angel Costume<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicFwdtfKCL08LrQPTbklV8g0ZjdUKQAJqJ1nuaDpcfOJDqW1xxBcXxg2xVMO4Cy0NRBDhYZT7IXNpApquOsa74zOjKwBD3mKuY7Gf6JhN1aVDlqzAlQVMhC1HTSffZsMLBg9z8GrNrzNE/s1600-h/Cosplay_Steampunk_Angel_by_MeAndMyMachine.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicFwdtfKCL08LrQPTbklV8g0ZjdUKQAJqJ1nuaDpcfOJDqW1xxBcXxg2xVMO4Cy0NRBDhYZT7IXNpApquOsa74zOjKwBD3mKuY7Gf6JhN1aVDlqzAlQVMhC1HTSffZsMLBg9z8GrNrzNE/s320/Cosplay_Steampunk_Angel_by_MeAndMyMachine.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381025241460177218" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: georgia;font-size:100%;" >This young lady won 1st place in the costume parade at the 2009<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicFwdtfKCL08LrQPTbklV8g0ZjdUKQAJqJ1nuaDpcfOJDqW1xxBcXxg2xVMO4Cy0NRBDhYZT7IXNpApquOsa74zOjKwBD3mKuY7Gf6JhN1aVDlqzAlQVMhC1HTSffZsMLBg9z8GrNrzNE/s1600-h/Cosplay_Steampunk_Angel_by_MeAndMyMachine.jpg"> </a><a href="http://haarzuilens.elffantasyfair.com/?langswitch_lang=en">Elf Fantasy Fair Haarzuilen, Netherlands</a>.</span> <p style="font-family: georgia;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://xxx-vitani-xxx.deviantart.com/art/EFF-2009-Crashed-Angel-120692088"></a>She would fit in perfectly with my Angels, would she not?</span></p> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc9sJqlp4lPHfMRn_i3y3U-wPYi7BW5Zq3cwA_ambieSN7yOLpaq0fbdkeMZ4Q3q6Z_E95xfs6JtwGpikgJhi8eQTgzzRToZYRqAvmw4UpOIxRk-pYIf05A3maQXXS9faAyRr6Pc3eh48/s1600-h/CosplayAngel_by_xxx_Vitani_xxx.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc9sJqlp4lPHfMRn_i3y3U-wPYi7BW5Zq3cwA_ambieSN7yOLpaq0fbdkeMZ4Q3q6Z_E95xfs6JtwGpikgJhi8eQTgzzRToZYRqAvmw4UpOIxRk-pYIf05A3maQXXS9faAyRr6Pc3eh48/s320/CosplayAngel_by_xxx_Vitani_xxx.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381025251522920834" border="0" /></a><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--><p style="font-family: georgia;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">More wonderful pics of some truly spectacular costumes from this (unfortunately rather far away!) event can be seen <a href="http://www.elffantasyimages.com/index.php?view=gallery">here</a>.<br /></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;font-size:100%;" ><br /><a href="http://www.elffantasyimages.com/index.php?view=gallery">http://www.elffantasyimages.com/index.php?view=gallery</a><br />Above photos by </span><span style="font-family: georgia;font-size:100%;" >Photos by <a href="http://meandmymachine.deviantart.com/art/Cosplay-Steampunk-Angel-120457327">MeAndMyMachine</a> and <a href="http://xxx-vitani-xxx.deviantart.com/art/EFF-2009-Crashed-Angel-120692088">xxxVitanixxx</a>, respectively.</span>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-38342834027908364512009-09-11T12:37:00.000-07:002009-09-11T15:54:11.781-07:00Scoundrel's Keep Corsets and More!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgInh5MtRhaobIKQaZ29BMsfvkoTsoOih63KudM1spakzSnvsn5-infaH5K59tUm_RwhQfedrFP3wKPvTXdxOuKbfy0_70O6QQVkHzNmEFNv8a-whHo0tTr-L6IDiNFLwJl5SRLrR6ZaaY/s1600-h/ScoundrelsKeep1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgInh5MtRhaobIKQaZ29BMsfvkoTsoOih63KudM1spakzSnvsn5-infaH5K59tUm_RwhQfedrFP3wKPvTXdxOuKbfy0_70O6QQVkHzNmEFNv8a-whHo0tTr-L6IDiNFLwJl5SRLrR6ZaaY/s320/ScoundrelsKeep1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380299679254792130" border="0" /></a>Designer Heather Luca, out of St. Paul Minnesota, is the formidable force behind the gorgeous creations of <a href="http://www.scoundrelleskeep.com/">Scoundrel's Keep</a> apparel.<br />Her main forte is corsets - so far she has a line of 14 beautifully crafted corset designs with delightful details and distinctive flair, including three unique corset dresses.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCtY-kgnRtTB4X0SD279L0RRsV2qngkXqurn9GS-YfoL30eB7AwOz6UUTM6Wtg8nqhpywbRo9xWP0wnaudEdlKeZx3M9brqnyjj3VfteoC7ktTfvs8aSYN6FSQaIJempzJfIXf3Ei17eg/s1600-h/ScoundrelsKeep4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCtY-kgnRtTB4X0SD279L0RRsV2qngkXqurn9GS-YfoL30eB7AwOz6UUTM6Wtg8nqhpywbRo9xWP0wnaudEdlKeZx3M9brqnyjj3VfteoC7ktTfvs8aSYN6FSQaIJempzJfIXf3Ei17eg/s320/ScoundrelsKeep4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380346557847608306" border="0" /></a>The superlatively inventive Ms. Luca can take even a basic design to new levels of creativity with various fabrics, adornments and embellishments - take a look at her <a href="http://www.scoundrelleskeep.com/lola.html">Lola corset</a> variations for a sampling.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5UwYIJckMq6l-5oQz4IpCiX0QxI8Pk9Eox6g3qJG833bCAbr5X458vqXAzshoETfukrILfS3k7dBpw2RdgbgOXVjXFkRK54nZZMaSjbUhHjcHEmbCzjk-ySmxTppGoTFWDDAQeNZ-bUg/s1600-h/ScoundrelsKeep2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5UwYIJckMq6l-5oQz4IpCiX0QxI8Pk9Eox6g3qJG833bCAbr5X458vqXAzshoETfukrILfS3k7dBpw2RdgbgOXVjXFkRK54nZZMaSjbUhHjcHEmbCzjk-ySmxTppGoTFWDDAQeNZ-bUg/s320/ScoundrelsKeep2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380299689916926370" border="0" /></a>I'm particularly enamored of her unique <a href="http://www.scoundrelleskeep.com/sabine.html">Sabine corset</a> design (shown at the top of this post), a unique underbust corset that features a high back with charmingly steamy buckles and straps.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaYDuV2mf8tIaXv7tYafH2Dtqi88hyihKxrCHWITztEeWX73fIRudmFTXxZAlChlLb4OVgU1y2kmiIwvbPs-uHdTCxBdsJy5Ji84-xwxGv1Xd0kxSv_oYAfAZ5gzsGyQyyxb3fzGCLbJI/s1600-h/ScoundrelsKeep3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaYDuV2mf8tIaXv7tYafH2Dtqi88hyihKxrCHWITztEeWX73fIRudmFTXxZAlChlLb4OVgU1y2kmiIwvbPs-uHdTCxBdsJy5Ji84-xwxGv1Xd0kxSv_oYAfAZ5gzsGyQyyxb3fzGCLbJI/s320/ScoundrelsKeep3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380345596105564562" border="0" /></a>She also has a lovely selection of other steampunk/Neo-Victorian apparel, including jackets, blouses, skirts, bloomers and petticoats and accessories.<br /><br />Check out more of Scoundrel's Keep's gorgeous and beautifully photographed creations here:<br /><a href="http://www.scoundrelleskeep.com/">http://www.scoundrelleskeep.com/</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-36044629537502097612009-09-10T11:49:00.001-07:002009-09-10T14:26:09.536-07:00Custom Avatar Portraits - Only $65!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_5Y8f2p-nELFIAQUGfDFEPXHar8AbJBPB2Cg-UNAyjQrfoJAOLHT-Wnf1Aw8z0pHZ4f33F-z6zmhvMEH3u7Ffn-ld5a1xQbk3MjgucH1SrkXMCceNPSy3VBsdeOBAxSwLx-duPFYGNiQ/s1600-h/DoreAvatar.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_5Y8f2p-nELFIAQUGfDFEPXHar8AbJBPB2Cg-UNAyjQrfoJAOLHT-Wnf1Aw8z0pHZ4f33F-z6zmhvMEH3u7Ffn-ld5a1xQbk3MjgucH1SrkXMCceNPSy3VBsdeOBAxSwLx-duPFYGNiQ/s320/DoreAvatar.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379912971884662034" border="0" /></a><span style="text-decoration: underline;">D</span>id you know that you can commission me to create a uniquely expressive portrait for use on your profile or website?<br />Just send me a clear (and flattering!) photo to work from to get a good (perhaps slightly idealized!) likeness, and the rest is up to your imagination. I can embellish you with fantastic clothing, accessories, even a fabulous new hairstyle! If you can describe it to me, or better yet, point me to a reference picture of what you have in mind, I can do it.<br />You can even be an Angel!<br /><br />Express your true self with distinctive style and artistic flair!<br />These also make great gifts for someone special.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjslLWpR9iVhervXk5tsENjMJJwxTjmRBUGMK8pji430LX0ErFZ5vhIVFN7gqJePD-6uKgjzjg2PNI42LfngwK-iQFOpTonIdPaaPKWXVUKL50zkViZNIOgt42o10l3nIGPcDr3A2cCzc4/s1600-h/DorePic.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 245px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjslLWpR9iVhervXk5tsENjMJJwxTjmRBUGMK8pji430LX0ErFZ5vhIVFN7gqJePD-6uKgjzjg2PNI42LfngwK-iQFOpTonIdPaaPKWXVUKL50zkViZNIOgt42o10l3nIGPcDr3A2cCzc4/s320/DorePic.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379912901705728962" border="0" /></a>This sample features my dashing and debonair husband, who is already quite fabulous as-is, but I added some groovy steampunk goggles for extra panache!<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Avatar portraits are only <span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);">$65</span> - a bargain for a one-of-a-kind custom portrait. </span></span><br />Please note that this is a special price for a small format, head-and-shoulders portrait only, with a limited level of detail and is intended for personal use only as your profile picture*.<br /><br />Shoot me an email at <a href="mailto:cristinamcallister@sbcglobal.net">cristinamcallister@sbcglobal.net</a> and we'll get started on creating your perfect avatar.<br /><br /><br />*Large format, full-body, more detailed and elaborate portraits are available, as is full copyright to the image, for $250-$500, depending on the level of detail. More info <a href="http://www.cristinasangels.com/CustomAngelsPage.htm">here</a>.<br /><a href="http://www.cristinasangels.com/CustomAngelsPage.htm">http://www.cristinasangels.com/CustomAngelsPage.htm</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-55198882857079876282009-09-10T09:51:00.001-07:002009-09-10T10:08:03.412-07:00Steampunk Nouveau<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlc2-Xi405c_uaTluSl89BIm_jAPK8SmffIIGDi7WtweK6Vojph2zVFt8toY-Y2Qm7FDGGa3Uj1znzwvIZY4pkkrc92uC-29nW_GZtoTaQvKCbFzf-bYNM0jGWnT2RTY7ar3P54YnfDOI/s1600-h/Steampunk_Nouveau_by_mary_chan.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 258px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlc2-Xi405c_uaTluSl89BIm_jAPK8SmffIIGDi7WtweK6Vojph2zVFt8toY-Y2Qm7FDGGa3Uj1znzwvIZY4pkkrc92uC-29nW_GZtoTaQvKCbFzf-bYNM0jGWnT2RTY7ar3P54YnfDOI/s320/Steampunk_Nouveau_by_mary_chan.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379885079325029698" border="0" /></a>by Italian illustrator Martina Cecilia.<br />Online portfolio:<br /><a href="http://www.sarapica.net/">http://www.sarapica.net/</a><br />DeviantArt Gallery:<br /><a href="http://mary-chan.deviantart.com/gallery/">http://mary-chan.deviantart.com/gallery/</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-52952718270474362882009-09-09T16:43:00.000-07:002009-09-09T17:00:40.021-07:00Featured Angel: Estelle<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHpJgqHc2uHm1QZ-4Xxbj1l3rDeE7qUMKRq0aBg2QSsdOArvacCeJOGHl00EYP9R47PngAnwVmun05tamd17YH45rRwPZ5JcT8fS7Xa_uCdX7r1NwlMB9hcGINd2zs5ntbBNFuG_YVnAc/s1600-h/DeviantArtAngel2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 199px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHpJgqHc2uHm1QZ-4Xxbj1l3rDeE7qUMKRq0aBg2QSsdOArvacCeJOGHl00EYP9R47PngAnwVmun05tamd17YH45rRwPZ5JcT8fS7Xa_uCdX7r1NwlMB9hcGINd2zs5ntbBNFuG_YVnAc/s320/DeviantArtAngel2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379617693004519874" border="0" /></a>The name "Estelle" means "star", and this glamorous bombshell is glittering like the jewels of the heavenly Firmament! With the sweet charm of Marilyn, a sophisticated sweep of Art Deco, and a shimmering sprinkle of sparkles, Estelle has got megawatts of star power!<br /><br />Available exclusively from Cristina McAllister as high-quality digital <a href="http://fineartamerica.com/featured/estelle-cristina-mcallister.html">art prints on fine art papers or canvas</a> and <a href="http://fineartamerica.com/showgreetingcard.php?id=462160">customizable greeting cards</a>.Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-42495492931510393922009-09-09T14:12:00.000-07:002009-09-09T14:15:30.330-07:00Addicted Image<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitdZkFmsFnfHSuXzHT4wuFSqKwLd-IrDWaY6mFu18DFJb7udUUaHpLSxVPtagE17CiMAIgYLWNfGygVlhGRMlk6MfEAZCPn96l3KWVVbkJYBCuJgAh51fOTu2zbkVndkq2WqttVoxY4og/s1600-h/AddictedImage1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitdZkFmsFnfHSuXzHT4wuFSqKwLd-IrDWaY6mFu18DFJb7udUUaHpLSxVPtagE17CiMAIgYLWNfGygVlhGRMlk6MfEAZCPn96l3KWVVbkJYBCuJgAh51fOTu2zbkVndkq2WqttVoxY4og/s320/AddictedImage1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379578970041461362" border="0" /></a>An enticing moment captured by Addicted Image:<br /><a href="http://addictedimage.com/">http://addictedimage.com/</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-38996543872888375282009-09-09T11:30:00.001-07:002009-09-09T11:40:34.510-07:00Kat Bret Photography<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAnBenZO6wOOY1DxY4ph7re-IpC9fvjvPG76NkWwkNy12TlIKBb2R-W_JsuKErAdCSvtULlNeVV6givTfEps-NBgCWPqASwY_OVmrJJt0i4zWjfYVLRsx7g5TJNOmM_euoOjkwEB89JdQ/s1600-h/KatBret5.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 199px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAnBenZO6wOOY1DxY4ph7re-IpC9fvjvPG76NkWwkNy12TlIKBb2R-W_JsuKErAdCSvtULlNeVV6givTfEps-NBgCWPqASwY_OVmrJJt0i4zWjfYVLRsx7g5TJNOmM_euoOjkwEB89JdQ/s320/KatBret5.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379537310236667634" border="0" /></a>My first glimpse of San Francisco photographer Kat Bret's work was the above image, which I spied on a steampunk site some time ago. Recent web wanderings have lead me to more of her lovely imagery - here is a small sampling.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjLT_hOFzUJ8CaURkzYg25hvNhNDHwmCpSHCmGs03wfmh0Me-m22g9hPugi0XkuvgtNVmDdarK5LbFpDkXPClVKrNfD6w61T4OH1Ll6_XJ3U9t8b9CeM22-ErL5D6XkDgjZ1eE2pt3z5s/s1600-h/KatBret4.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 221px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjLT_hOFzUJ8CaURkzYg25hvNhNDHwmCpSHCmGs03wfmh0Me-m22g9hPugi0XkuvgtNVmDdarK5LbFpDkXPClVKrNfD6w61T4OH1Ll6_XJ3U9t8b9CeM22-ErL5D6XkDgjZ1eE2pt3z5s/s320/KatBret4.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379537302803255602" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC4awU3HycsnpUVHWlA89odiqjGo2vyxjlrXkYVKBgMzyBu0qoINgsHsC2EIbYep4l2xXj3SQskJEqw0bxG5Oz8rie4o9PuvthVulnTfV-zDR8rsqPRWb9u282CsZTqYcBVpJqeJD4va4/s1600-h/KatBret3.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC4awU3HycsnpUVHWlA89odiqjGo2vyxjlrXkYVKBgMzyBu0qoINgsHsC2EIbYep4l2xXj3SQskJEqw0bxG5Oz8rie4o9PuvthVulnTfV-zDR8rsqPRWb9u282CsZTqYcBVpJqeJD4va4/s320/KatBret3.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379537298185954018" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywnTM4FKMiI5_uzPra51B1KhUZIA6p1Ta62AxPI88W59HAtdPUYS3TMAauqvFuK2cUFpNg25lTgTPToxV4rnXPhAzHdlZwBYlAGk5jy2xFXBAqNeBRLi6c0PI9ZJOT8toUPJh8Ua8TCU/s1600-h/KatBret2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywnTM4FKMiI5_uzPra51B1KhUZIA6p1Ta62AxPI88W59HAtdPUYS3TMAauqvFuK2cUFpNg25lTgTPToxV4rnXPhAzHdlZwBYlAGk5jy2xFXBAqNeBRLi6c0PI9ZJOT8toUPJh8Ua8TCU/s320/KatBret2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379537289736063938" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-1ZX50H6-gLfYOKBNDyLVh0huo1jlYVX4PWis7EpVgQBybJO1J6QiWgzvP8OQjEyGQBbIQuMr8ffcAO6NPxSvm0NGMnSg2aizf8tPB6hiCNCGVMrb6HzyAWEI98FKXp2_-JhNcoxhfA/s1600-h/KatBret1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-1ZX50H6-gLfYOKBNDyLVh0huo1jlYVX4PWis7EpVgQBybJO1J6QiWgzvP8OQjEyGQBbIQuMr8ffcAO6NPxSvm0NGMnSg2aizf8tPB6hiCNCGVMrb6HzyAWEI98FKXp2_-JhNcoxhfA/s320/KatBret1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379537280960876114" border="0" /></a>More of Ms. Bret's work can be found on her website:<br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--><a href="http://www.katbret.com/index.php"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";">http://www.katbret.com/index.php</span></a><br />and her DeviantArt Gallery:<br /><a href="http://katbretphotography.deviantart.com/">http://katbretphotography.deviantart.com/</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-64090314350498676882009-09-05T10:38:00.000-07:002009-09-05T10:53:53.709-07:00Lacy Chokers by Art of Adornment<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzqflrLy2JmgMVKHNiZ0zbSnK_A-C3qZIzjbBp9szoJgvm1SLhkpEroAX_11k3KNBD6hUXqvqXI0C396vgE7FLL_KEgy2nivYOjNX8BNKBodzVJTXZE_1-y06oif1SqaFfIi0DZixrz4/s1600-h/ArtofAdornment4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzqflrLy2JmgMVKHNiZ0zbSnK_A-C3qZIzjbBp9szoJgvm1SLhkpEroAX_11k3KNBD6hUXqvqXI0C396vgE7FLL_KEgy2nivYOjNX8BNKBodzVJTXZE_1-y06oif1SqaFfIi0DZixrz4/s320/ArtofAdornment4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378042442951197586" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.artofadornment.ca/catalog/index.php">Art of Adornment</a> is a Canadian jewelry studio that creates "historically-inspired vintage Victorian, romantic Renaissance, daring 1920's and dark modern Gothic style - limited edition and one-of-a-kind accessories made from rare, unusual and exquisite components".<span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS, Franklin Gothic Medium, Arial, sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinK9cW_xqdpdywsHUaQjaQuh_Noby51CKThUfdljptc56nDrXdJoCVB2DM-KKkgs4OkfXCvBMUNLhhzxD-Kptg8uYQf5fb7jxNqdirQ362XxWNRArwBWpZ06Vr_TaBg82e4a2wLAgY5J4/s1600-h/ArtofAdornment1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 317px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinK9cW_xqdpdywsHUaQjaQuh_Noby51CKThUfdljptc56nDrXdJoCVB2DM-KKkgs4OkfXCvBMUNLhhzxD-Kptg8uYQf5fb7jxNqdirQ362XxWNRArwBWpZ06Vr_TaBg82e4a2wLAgY5J4/s320/ArtofAdornment1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378042422871467058" border="0" /></a>I'm especially taken with their lace chokers made from fancy trim and appliques embellished with jewels and pendants.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ03psq5RvqZg1xvlfju4M6MrRtQUf7BE2m0YsAlDVz2TnGuK70_AcGHyHMmk6dNLVoHBd3tLQiL9OTQZUFVlF7i96Gf_P-xyVYFb9jscdkDnVwObeqVVhNoc-Ec7Low6WCXKzMjWtukM/s1600-h/ArtofAdornment3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 313px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ03psq5RvqZg1xvlfju4M6MrRtQUf7BE2m0YsAlDVz2TnGuK70_AcGHyHMmk6dNLVoHBd3tLQiL9OTQZUFVlF7i96Gf_P-xyVYFb9jscdkDnVwObeqVVhNoc-Ec7Low6WCXKzMjWtukM/s320/ArtofAdornment3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378042436013818610" border="0" /></a><br />Beyond their elegant jewelry, they also carry a selection of hair accessories and hats, hosiery, fans and wooden "cigar box" purses and jewelry boxes.<span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS, Franklin Gothic Medium, Arial, sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDM93mki_UgxLzIk6OC0HzToCc-I746vgspR_weEPLEjw-EYPtZLX7SNt9LVmBdZQGxwj2VrcRYeg8TIkNOU0BthQaMnb0X8EO7shyapmwL9jL4sFROCaQH7QeqmowfRQVXpYynyzvRoc/s1600-h/ArtofAdornment2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 230px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDM93mki_UgxLzIk6OC0HzToCc-I746vgspR_weEPLEjw-EYPtZLX7SNt9LVmBdZQGxwj2VrcRYeg8TIkNOU0BthQaMnb0X8EO7shyapmwL9jL4sFROCaQH7QeqmowfRQVXpYynyzvRoc/s320/ArtofAdornment2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378042430483221522" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.artofadornment.ca/catalog/index.php">http://www.artofadornment.ca/catalog/index.php</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-54238512341474547652009-09-02T14:13:00.000-07:002009-09-02T14:25:47.306-07:00Lush Imagery from Aesthetic Alchemy<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSvHb8m96kWKhY_UU6rcVTcTBgxUaIeem0ElgYokxJ2tMg7u1ygPTPSn1vlXORDFE4tCirH5fBtd2O_qw3TLpd_4bCurYrosWd_qFF_Zicu2Sy2GKYqW1TqvULvWK7ung_LXXQPxLSoq4/s1600-h/AestheticAlchemy5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 252px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSvHb8m96kWKhY_UU6rcVTcTBgxUaIeem0ElgYokxJ2tMg7u1ygPTPSn1vlXORDFE4tCirH5fBtd2O_qw3TLpd_4bCurYrosWd_qFF_Zicu2Sy2GKYqW1TqvULvWK7ung_LXXQPxLSoq4/s320/AestheticAlchemy5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376981765286260642" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxUb4Ebg1EK0CVwVwfXBU3G3ll6iwINk7Vz9okVENNZwqd3h7hUigOJ5e7siHewkaEE-sFsycNPBwXcS-5jKpnTBjn0YT54VHq73kLehwg7B7y51cSQgr2Z5ILG55tM6bVt34G8DvIp6E/s1600-h/AestheticAlchemy7.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxUb4Ebg1EK0CVwVwfXBU3G3ll6iwINk7Vz9okVENNZwqd3h7hUigOJ5e7siHewkaEE-sFsycNPBwXcS-5jKpnTBjn0YT54VHq73kLehwg7B7y51cSQgr2Z5ILG55tM6bVt34G8DvIp6E/s320/AestheticAlchemy7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376981986331747266" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLmtf8usK-M7bUYQ8604O6Z1Wd4Nxc8hwAZxD4EzwP5Y5EJKjWOVVAIgo2fh7X01BhnTV4qZPaR6fUdNPYBcb1LOGmJcDn8OBF6EhZWASQqQsNtDJrZSQW63ijtL9h4WPeZopOlcJ7_lw/s1600-h/AestheticAlchemy8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 281px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLmtf8usK-M7bUYQ8604O6Z1Wd4Nxc8hwAZxD4EzwP5Y5EJKjWOVVAIgo2fh7X01BhnTV4qZPaR6fUdNPYBcb1LOGmJcDn8OBF6EhZWASQqQsNtDJrZSQW63ijtL9h4WPeZopOlcJ7_lw/s320/AestheticAlchemy8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376981993305741442" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZv4b7TH8vHKEq8MvC9gY6bj6EPIi-jJoDAyJzNy07tNSf8xI_V9gOxMT5W717VZNFAOZPJXAeyzzpTWVK57-hv4cPTPEunJhT2nzeoxDcnL9RAWPgNRv05gSuTgonLO6lGCn9ZbASWos/s1600-h/AestheticAlchemy6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 202px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZv4b7TH8vHKEq8MvC9gY6bj6EPIi-jJoDAyJzNy07tNSf8xI_V9gOxMT5W717VZNFAOZPJXAeyzzpTWVK57-hv4cPTPEunJhT2nzeoxDcnL9RAWPgNRv05gSuTgonLO6lGCn9ZbASWos/s320/AestheticAlchemy6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376981974804078402" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvMu5coVoLcgsrKsE_q5N-CxxgrBEC9jMR6mz8ChMbW1vxDER5lic40hEHUe8v4AVQjR1QzSegayxJ4qEPC18K5d-9n3VmNyImJKBER0nuCXpKYefCNVSt61m2Z0iHhZGO0tPNv_KZRFM/s1600-h/AestheticAlchemy4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvMu5coVoLcgsrKsE_q5N-CxxgrBEC9jMR6mz8ChMbW1vxDER5lic40hEHUe8v4AVQjR1QzSegayxJ4qEPC18K5d-9n3VmNyImJKBER0nuCXpKYefCNVSt61m2Z0iHhZGO0tPNv_KZRFM/s320/AestheticAlchemy4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376981755453184722" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAqiT5unmJVOLzQmpXn1ShvK0Deokdx9rv-SR6s_xQOtZCvfexChaVjZdYGKoLyBkOcqb44aOfXFea9AyJtQ2DQBPAFcwCxxJv_HDRK7LQy36wIOl1Ek-jpDo73H8qpkjGoObaD5EUoVk/s1600-h/AestheticAlchemy3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 197px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAqiT5unmJVOLzQmpXn1ShvK0Deokdx9rv-SR6s_xQOtZCvfexChaVjZdYGKoLyBkOcqb44aOfXFea9AyJtQ2DQBPAFcwCxxJv_HDRK7LQy36wIOl1Ek-jpDo73H8qpkjGoObaD5EUoVk/s320/AestheticAlchemy3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376981748783473698" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZXo_1fQf5i7dt-kqVPTwL1sRYXWkEGp0ggVeMhZ6GWvWSsyYcoGIgGYXZRgP45akzFicM7dVYgPv8gvf_ATxRbNd855NNR2_9n2IRU95q2_XqmWTJmOF9hD1Ot-HZKCEyRSQhkQQOSUY/s1600-h/AestheticAlchemy2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 185px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZXo_1fQf5i7dt-kqVPTwL1sRYXWkEGp0ggVeMhZ6GWvWSsyYcoGIgGYXZRgP45akzFicM7dVYgPv8gvf_ATxRbNd855NNR2_9n2IRU95q2_XqmWTJmOF9hD1Ot-HZKCEyRSQhkQQOSUY/s320/AestheticAlchemy2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376981742234861058" border="0" /></a>Multi-talented Darien Revel, the mind (and apparently body) behind <a href="http://www.aestheticalchemy.com/">Aesthetic Alchemy</a>, masterfully combines moody sets, lush costumes, fierce makeup, props and lighting to create unique fine photography for the fashion and portrait markets.<br />I adore the glasses!<br /><a href="http://www.aestheticalchemy.com/">http://www.aestheticalchemy.com/</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-69678269640665220282009-09-02T11:23:00.001-07:002009-09-02T11:43:19.514-07:00More Fantastic Hats...by Elsie Massey<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://elsiemassey.com/emstore/cart.php?target=product&product_id=1641&category_id=92"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiqCdBTyqQwDG87oED2wwZxdb-M17vQ7zsOunbwJSepF9zjSGqr3Ljwcu_yYuRmOXdIF7GAAbZdi0UIixzEnNxPQQmWeAqvP47zeZpVj2VAK3SRW4XUMnCVN5eURneDgUCY9Kb5UI3Gnc/s320/ElsieMassey3.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376940161301204770" border="0" /></a><span><span>I just received a letter from Ms. Purdy, whom I recently featured in a <a href="http://cristinasangels.blogspot.com/2009/08/fabulous-hats-by-ms-purdy.html">post about her fabulous hats</a>. She informed me that the hat pictured at the top of that post was not one of her own creations, but was, in fact, made by one Elsie Massey – another delightful hatmaker and colleague of hers.<br /><br /> <a href="http://www.elsiemassey.com/">Elsie Massey Originals</a> is a fourth-generation family business that originated in New Castle-on-tyne, England by Elsie's Grandmother. The shop has an extensive selection of finery to choose from: English garden hats, French riding hats, Walk-in-the-Park hats, Touring hats, small brim, large brim, chiffon brim, hats for children, and more.<br />She has even thoughtfully gathered all of her black hats into <a href="http://elsiemassey.com/emstore/cart.php?target=category&category_id=90">one section</a> for the Gothic purists, or perhaps for those looking for mourning attire. <br /><br />I just love all the rich colors and charming details. They evoke a bygone era of elegance and style that’s rarely seen in everyday life nowadays. How fun it must have been to swath oneself in fine silks and brocades and feathers and flowers!<br />But I’ve read enough historical novels to know that wearing extravagant outfits every day was no Walk-in-the-Park, so to speak. We’re lucky that these days we can choose to play dress-up when we want to, and relax and be casual when we don’t. <br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://elsiemassey.com/emstore/cart.php?target=category&category_id=90"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ182XtLTvNRojjnu_4-6PCr7qgjrO-t12FKdqsMqm9nkKUP8-rBWCkYvbW71USv2XoNdPqs0TACMx5sFsMk6lqEzqJ0QkX_JIXyxqEln0VHRwvIcCV7AEg3-iu_cOTdHWNhGTTtCZPIk/s320/ElsieMassey2.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376940151997354082" border="0" /></a><span><span>Beyond her marvelous hats, Elsie’s shop also features Victorian accessories such as lace and crochet gloves, decorated parasols and fans, feathered hairclips and these wonderful Victorian collars – delightfully simple garments that can effortlessly turn an ordinary blouse or dress into a fabulous period costume piece. <br /><br />My favorite creations, though, are her fanciful Victorian Witch hats – a unique twist on the ubiquitous pointy chapeau traditionally worn by spell-casting sorceresses. Adorned with whimsical bats, spiders, autumn gourds, fall leaves, even a crow familiar…these outrageous concoctions are pure wicked fun!</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://elsiemassey.com/emstore/cart.php?target=product&product_id=1534&category_id=85"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpGgUzXGFO93S7I-jEQM1np3t9UKYAsoeP0vJId8VqAK2S7AXrqioQI6Fy1uFldtTZc-lvyMMIotg2xzS_0oiGyc7Oai3SJJ6fEsOZJ9sv7TKHK1UCEf3ssJ8TEC-utcuZlzRTtxpluZE/s320/ElsieMassey1.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376940145438447442" border="0" /> </a><span><span>Seeing these makes me want to design a whole costume to go with them – a fabulous, flamboyant Madame Magick to cluck and fuss over the wee trick-or-treaters on All-Hallows Eve.<br />We do still have a couple of months till the end of October...hmmmm...<br /><br />Find Elsie Massey hats and more at:<br /><a href="http://www.elsiemassey.com/">http://www.elsiemassey.com/</a><br /><br /></span></span>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-4546491644824823572009-09-01T11:36:00.000-07:002009-09-01T11:52:31.669-07:00The Pyramid CollectionThis print and <a href="http://www.pyramidcollection.com/default.asp">online catalog</a> features a selection of apparel, accessories, art and gift items that focus on “Magick, Myth, Fantasy & Romance”.<br />Their “themes” include renaissance, gothic, wicca, Celtic, pirates, and more. They don’t have Steampunk listed as one of their themes, but they do have a number of items that happily fit into this category.<br />Here are some highlights:<p class="MsoNormal"></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pyramidcollection.com/itemdy00.asp?c=01&SKW=apparel&SKW2=coat+cape&TKW=&Scat=Y&GEN1=Coats+and+Capes&OR=Y&parent=&T1=P9788+S&PageNo=1&pos=4#top"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRidtNw0sR66LWFnFJY9znFaZ7TUNAoSSezHHY_JBbmVNItRo_13SUAYpEyB-8K79vBTCvsLGTs4peie-nuLIp4BCMnLNZpOKtKfoiqUwlHa1HwWdHAHL-FdY1gCS4en4k98ShyXXbLn8/s320/Pyramid5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376570217464389058" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pyramidcollection.com/itemdy00.asp?c=20&SKW=PC096&SKW2=&TKW=&Scat=Y&GEN1=Themes&OR=Y&parent=1&T1=P85713+S&PageNo=2&pos=12"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYVOhpGQEKg26WO_j7I77YPu5gl20v59OYbxV3odckFYs_N1p5M4xNlEkBNFmc5QdZSW17RBq0iDMyI8cAo4nHrLNxOjCW6NQQz0W6Yz6-srCCynIaqaiTRgzF2a2gUFIrtFZNTz5qnwk/s320/Pyramid3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376570198851497202" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pyramidcollection.com/itemdy00.asp?c=01&SKW=apparel&SKW2=&TKW=&Scat=Y&GEN1=Apparel+and+Accessories&OR=&parent=1&T1=P82317+S&PageNo=1&pos=2#top"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 168px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioIgHzoUKJMHL4hHLO4wjc8cYkbO9BnhOBNKLiQrWFyoO3IZE3BKV6ECtHFQYDBMA0nFUQjfgn5MsaZzCnMPDjQPV702EweK5PtThcFIyVqr9MMEjXT9HcVa_XN_QCqnKi154PM5c1JOQ/s320/Pyramid10.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376570512030011538" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pyramidcollection.com/itemdy00.asp?scat=Y&c=01&SKW=apparel+misc&GEN1=Accessories&T1=P8992+6&PageNo=1&pos=2"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQpdy6qn34gpZedTnBiXzlZq6Frpdmry2VQQGq_GOBlgF3Q7fnpE-tGn70A_RXW4uVaXfKg5Ut_Pgfn_dJmqZBIif_60aJUo2LemSDtp1D8nWzWVpHNQtaHzm13q1YY6yr0jPx7Ypf6_Q/s320/Pyramid8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376570498052188930" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pyramidcollection.com/itemdy00.asp?c=20&SKW=Gothic&SKW2=&TKW=&Scat=Y&GEN1=Gothic&OR=&parent=1&T1=P8352+XS&PageNo=2&pos=7"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCCSQ39qi6lL7u09tySoKA0pDXoJvRkyealWevt_4jc_Xaa6v3uwEWVSW5eYNcFTokH9KzTiEK8yDGBBXd78ZWWt3-RyfbGDcrC3qIgCkbzTNFL858JiDJSgPOBVasEOeqnK_EY9K1kbs/s320/Pyramid2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376570198520027314" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pyramidcollection.com/itemdy00.asp?c=20&SKW=PC096&SKW2=&TKW=&Scat=Y&GEN1=Themes&OR=Y&parent=1&T1=P89913&PageNo=4&pos=4"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEP1WCITXSt2w7vP9G9qsaY3kFJ42LgfHNLeEAhfY67FnB_6jBUkyAH8VRG38ekCFcSQG3FMW3E1ZakP1hoyNXhYV-Fpv5_5WGldujfieZIf8yWwrtDEWLawO1t9N8aCClh7rMVyhQQ3A/s320/Pyramid7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376570491707960946" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pyramidcollection.com/itemdy00.asp?c=01&SKW=apparel&SKW2=sweater+shirt+vest&TKW=&Scat=Y&GEN1=Tops&OR=Y&parent=&PageNo=9&Sort=&pagelen=&T1=P9815+XL&PageNo=9&pos=10"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU2jAq6FACnWzCfbcmbCEVG0_9Wh2pOAxcU43ADNyLHTOt3jFi9kIajboWoO_RlOA300xnwlYD6yvUPA0X04xrOckZjOr9aNkvxJErIBgg_02LRxDjOEmiB4CH4pzP4aEnEh4jkERDnJE/s320/Pyramid6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376570487057382946" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pyramidcollection.com/itemdy00.asp?c=20&T1=P16524"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik9smn4iUtb5qh-vPQxyGx0-hu-9HDXqePMdFyNYX2E8FFA1oDPZ7431TiwCx11ftEPmv8gQ8vWXIFd_Ef7UZqIRPVKbOnRl7M_0UW6XRoRjfnRs-8vMyqiP4uOhIxQ7mtq_ohmcXQ1hQ/s320/Pyramid1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376570186855012242" border="0" /></a><br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p><a href="http://www.pyramidcollection.com/default.asp">The Pyramid Collection</a></p><p class="MsoNormal">http://www.pyramidcollection.com/default.asp<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-2068521876191629262009-08-31T13:04:00.000-07:002009-09-14T13:53:51.232-07:00Sneak Peek: New Angel in the works!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMFuYCFkVCfLeKny5WBX9wKnP0E7QjTj5N8aHGUBzIEKmM2z4c0mKJYIthiJee6RQFE0Ey11vYOEZza-NeT6QEkyxPF8Yy_pSChnSh0dpsh26sFoXc4w_7-LZsDyce8MPsgmV6ekmrVxs/s1600-h/LloronaPeek.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 165px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMFuYCFkVCfLeKny5WBX9wKnP0E7QjTj5N8aHGUBzIEKmM2z4c0mKJYIthiJee6RQFE0Ey11vYOEZza-NeT6QEkyxPF8Yy_pSChnSh0dpsh26sFoXc4w_7-LZsDyce8MPsgmV6ekmrVxs/s320/LloronaPeek.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376221573441636114" border="0" /></a>I know I haven't posted a new angel for awhile, but that doesn't mean I've been slacking off!<br />I have been working on one that's rather ornate and time-consuming, in between freelance jobs.<br />Here's a little preview of the work in progress.<br /><br />Update: This piece has been <a href="http://cristinasangels.blogspot.com/2009/09/new-angel-la-rosa.html">finished</a>!Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-54240567858288710342009-08-31T12:16:00.000-07:002009-09-01T11:52:59.052-07:00The Queen of Trees<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIr5vYsoolyRXPSW3PLu-YTNIfUKBIFRI3xhN1e-5kTB9XUvtVFVSH59jRK4A3w17Fdkf9lWctVH0SGTNWdbBDpw5E-Td7FIyUFgtfyd5GB8P7gjtyMaWtm2tava47cP7c-pt8BnTZljs/s1600-h/queenoftrees.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIr5vYsoolyRXPSW3PLu-YTNIfUKBIFRI3xhN1e-5kTB9XUvtVFVSH59jRK4A3w17Fdkf9lWctVH0SGTNWdbBDpw5E-Td7FIyUFgtfyd5GB8P7gjtyMaWtm2tava47cP7c-pt8BnTZljs/s320/queenoftrees.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376209312034334226" border="0" /></a>I caught this documentary on PBS last night and my mine was blown!<br />I love nature documentaries, but I confess that when I saw what this one was about – a type of fig tree in Kenya, Africa – it didn’t immediately intrigue me.<br />How exciting can a tree be, anyway?<br /><br />I was soon to find out that the sycamore fig tree is the center of an incredible ecosystem that involves everything from microscopic parasites to elephants, and in between…insects, birds, monkeys, bats, fish, crocodiles, and more! <br /><br />The life cycle of this amazing tree is vitally intertwined with that of the minuscule fig wasp (small enough to fly through the eye of a needle), that is its sole pollinator. This mind-boggling symbiotic relationship – mostly taking place INSIDE the fruit, is beautifully filmed using innovative techniques, not to mention plenty of patience.<br />A sample of this incredibly intimate filmwork can be seen <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9BrWDGf9_y4">here</a>.<br />More behind-the-scenes info on how they achieved these amazing shots and the work that went into this production can be found <a href="http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/episodes/the-queen-of-trees/behind-the-scenes-with-the-filmmakers/1354/">here</a>. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglu7-3-q2TCTJTumLMikFS0JTBVplzC1Ku01J_pb3WHF0ZaR8XkEyo8C9WEYnsEy-AzMRq6If2_cFlXTFXwzUtqSP3Zuh-QNL_7r1oMlDVMjcBonsfdxWinrI92Du1_RJEa-pKFuJaFZk/s1600-h/pink-mantis-500.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 288px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglu7-3-q2TCTJTumLMikFS0JTBVplzC1Ku01J_pb3WHF0ZaR8XkEyo8C9WEYnsEy-AzMRq6If2_cFlXTFXwzUtqSP3Zuh-QNL_7r1oMlDVMjcBonsfdxWinrI92Du1_RJEa-pKFuJaFZk/s320/pink-mantis-500.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376209320476886306" border="0" /></a>Beyond the jaw-dropping revelations of the wasps’ adventures, there’s the aphid-herding ant “security force” that drives off animals harmful to the tree, drunken butterflies, parasites upon parasites, sap-squirting cicadas, latex-stealing bees, hornbill birds who seal themselves into the tree’s trunk, tiny, a spiny pink mantis, a giraffe with impressively nimble tongue and monkeys munching fruit, licking sweet sap, catching inebriated butterflies and feeding the fish in the river below. <br />And that’s not even all of it!<br /><br />This film had me captivated and awed all the way through. It made me reel in wonder at the phenomenal variety and ingenuity of life, and how complex and amazing the intertwining of different species can be.<br /><br />If you happen to see it listed, I highly recommend watching!<br />It is also available on <a href="http://www.shopthirteen.org/product/show/29368">dvd</a>. <br />A short, introductory clip can be seen <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMNPZPYCCw4">here</a>.<br />More info, including some videos, photographs and related articles can be found<a href="http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/episodes/the-queen-of-trees/introduction/1362/"> here</a>.<p class="MsoNormal"></p>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7897452731027327375.post-81023122310924571442009-08-27T12:03:00.000-07:002009-08-27T14:21:23.894-07:00Luna<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiHEYF7EotEZFm229mE1gTgGPcbtqAP9zos_3WTcMgtoYT5fEf7hNAFFigLyQpRgM_vrXooncbmzThirU_vvT29c3Xfe8za28SPvdeqgWyIwGHjXdpk-1irBlw_4yAvJQQ3ykzJM-94oc/s1600-h/Luna.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 215px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiHEYF7EotEZFm229mE1gTgGPcbtqAP9zos_3WTcMgtoYT5fEf7hNAFFigLyQpRgM_vrXooncbmzThirU_vvT29c3Xfe8za28SPvdeqgWyIwGHjXdpk-1irBlw_4yAvJQQ3ykzJM-94oc/s320/Luna.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374755774119865234" border="0" /></a>From my butterfly and moth-inspired series "Lepidoptera", this piece combines the mysterious glow of the moon and the delicately-hued luna moth named after it.<br />Prints (matted and framed, if you wish) now exclusively available <a href="http://fineartamerica.com/featured/luna-cristina-mcallister.html">here</a>.<br /><a href="http://fineartamerica.com/featured/luna-cristina-mcallister.html"><br />http://fineartamerica.com/featured/luna-cristina-mcallister.html</a>Cristina McAllisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02997355652282455202noreply@blogger.com0