www.funkybeadsandstuff.com

18/12/2024

Jean-Michel Basquiat (1960-1988) was a trailblazing artist whose work bridged the gap between street art and the mainstream art world. His early days in New York City were marked by his involvement in the graffiti scene, where he became known for his tag "SAMO" (Same Old S**t), which he used to deface public buildings, often accompanied by cryptic messages and social commentary. This early rebellion laid the foundation for his distinctive style that would later captivate galleries worldwide.

Basquiat's breakthrough came in the late 1970s and early 1980s, when he transitioned from street art to painting. His raw, expressive works, often filled with chaotic lines, symbolic imagery, and references to African American culture, caught the attention of the art world. He gained significant recognition when he exhibited at the Annina Nosei Gallery in 1982, a pivotal moment in his career.

Around this time, Basquiat became a part of New York City's burgeoning downtown art scene, which was also home to other influential artists like Andy Warhol and Keith Haring. His relationship with Warhol, in particular, was highly publicized and marked by collaboration and mutual admiration. Warhol's influence on Basquiat was profound, but it was also a source of tension, as Basquiat struggled with feelings of artistic insecurity and a desire to forge his own identity.

Basquiat's work was characterized by its vibrant color palette, abstraction, and intense symbolism. He often explored themes of race, identity, power, and the complexities of life as a Black artist in America. His untimely death at the age of 27 from a he**in overdose only added to the mythos surrounding him, but his influence continues to resonate in contemporary art today. His paintings are now highly coveted, and his legacy endures as one of the most important artists of the 20th century.

This portrait of Basquiat with Madonna, captured in 1982, is a snapshot of an iconic moment in both their lives—when they were both rising stars in their respective fields, before Basquiat's tragic death in 1988.

25/11/2024

31/01/2024

It’s a
Process for all involved! Remember that you have chosen a safe place for your child to be.
Separation anxiety is emotional and hard work but you do have to also realise that as the adult if you are confident they won’t be either.
Don’t stay to long even with tears as you are giving mixed messages instead leave but ring, communicate and work with your educators to have the best transition!
We are always here to help!!

Feeling comfortable in a new space can take time, even for adults. Experiencing some challenges at drop offs in the first few weeks is common and age appropriate. Even if they have been in care happily before, the beginning of the year can feel different; new faces, spaces set up differently, and other children’s emotions can all have an impact on a child as they arrive.

Here’s some ways to help settle your child into their new early childhood setting:
◾ Chat about it at other times of the week. Wonder out loud about the fun things they might do, and share some of your own happy memories.
◾ Establish a predictable morning routine, allowing enough time to arrive before the session starts, and to not feel rushed before getting out the door. This helps children arrive feeling calm, and helps them to know they won’t arrive partway through the program.
◾ Reassure them of when you’ll be back, eg, after lunch, or after rest time, and ensure your own verbal and non-verbal communication is positive and calm (even if you might not be feeling it on the inside!).
◾ Always say goodbye, even if they are playing well or seem content and you think a goodbye may change this. Children need to feel a sense of security & trust to feel comfortable with drop-offs, and sneaking-off can cause unease which can then impact future drop-offs.
◾ Consider what helps your child feel secure. Is it the soothing back and forth of a swing, fast paced-play such as bikes, sensory water/sand play, a quiet book or puzzle on soft cushions, or focusing on creating a masterpiece at the easel? Some may seek out a new friend, while others may prefer the support of an educator.
◾ After sessions, talk with your child about what they enjoyed during the day and what parts they are finding tricky. How are they going opening lunch containers and accessing the toilet when they need to? Do they know where their bag and belongings are during the day?
◾ Comfort objects can sometimes help, such as a special soft toy, or a family photo. Some parents and caregivers pop notes into lunchboxes with hearts, hugs and kisses for children to find during the day.
◾ Finally, know that it’s okay to ease in gradually. Educators are accustomed to accommodating for a wide range of needs right throughout the year, but especially in the early weeks, so feel confident in chatting to find an approach that works well for your family.

17/11/2023

I found these cheese “crackers” on Pinterest along time ago when I was doing a low-carb diet… I just made some this morning for my keto adventure . I just sliced cheese in squares and put it on parchment paper. Bake in the oven for 7 minutes at 400°. I put pepperoni and jalapeños on some of them, I’ve seen a lot of other people put some seasonings and other toppings. I’ve also crushed them up as a salad topper. Or keep them plain and use them with guacamole or other dips. I keep them in the fridge for a go to snack ☺️ thought I’d share 👍🏼

23/10/2023

10/10/2023

Words may come and go, and lessons might linger, but it's in the heart of connection where true understanding unfolds. When we're actively involved, we don't just hear or see; we connect, we grasp, we grow. 🌱

02/08/2022

Tarting up some bags!! Tassels and Pom poms…. Can’t go wrong!

18/04/2022

12/04/2022

Upcycled an old desk today for a beautiful friend today! Such great therapy….. even got the k***s at the local op shop!!