Inside the Spin-Mosaic Studio

Forgiveness can be a slippery virtue to get a hold of. There are many kinds of forgiveness just as there are many kinds and levels of offenses. We can be a victim with a lowercase "v" or an uppercase "V". I don't have all the answers, but this is the story of one everyday moment when God answered the question of "Why?". "Why did this happen to...me?" It may have been a small offense to some, but on that day, my faith-in-humanity barometer took a tank and I couldn't seem to climb out of my disappointment. Has this ever happened to you? I offer this story not as an expert on forgiveness, but only as a witness. Grab a cup of lemonade and enjoy a moment to connect! [...]

Seasons of life each bring with them a form of nievity and expertise. In this article, author, artist, and illustrator, Christi Ziebarth shares a parking lot observation of a far-reaching random act of kindness. Inspiration comes in many forms. Sometimes, it is not so much what is gathered from a photo or experience that translates into inspiration to create; but the mystery that it leaves. [...]

Artists not only make art, but we "make", invent, and describe our reasons for making. Why are we connected to what we do? To what tribe or audience are we aiming for? How are these connections articulated? How do these connections become contagious and carry momentum? In my personal quest to grapple, define, and catch these sometimes elusive purposes, a moment of time caught me in my tracks...across the street from the Courthouse while 100's were looking the other way and chanting slogans to further the noise of a political rally. It was here that my Why was caught. A story played out. An analogy came to life in front of my eyes. Suddenly, I knew my Why. Perhaps, this story will help you define yours, too! [...]

This article shares of the story how my favorite vintage guitar came into my my possession and the remarkable woman who gave it to me. Simultaneously, I have surfaced more instruments than countless guitars! 2013 found me collaborating with the American Pianist's Association to surface a concert grand piano. Their stories were very very similar and remind us all to uphold every ounce of worth and identify. [...]

In this article, I take a trip down memory lane to a nursery rhyme illustration that captured my imagination many years ago...and connect with the value of light in spirituality and how this same light is represented in my art today. [...]

Artist and Author, Christi Ziebarth, shares a morning attending an honorary event for fallen heroes in memory of September 11. It was raining that day. Her daughter made an observation that "Patriots don't come out in the rain?" This article takes a look at the first step of an American Spirit at any age: Show Up! [...]

Through illustrated memoires of teaching Art among the Amish community, this article takes a closer look at self-perception, vanity, novelty, and a "mad" confidence of being who you are--who God gifted you to be! The main character in the story is a half-sheared triumphant alpaca who ran away from the clippers, and a lavatory mirror shrouded by a fragile curtain. [...]

There is much at a sunny summer Art Fair to be purchased, but not with only $3 in your pocket. On a day when I didn't have much to spare, I set out for 90 minutes with my little daughter at my side to gather inspiration where it may be found. I was not disappointed! This day I learned a lesson while my little daughter looked on. Inspiration is about shared connection, finding your inspiration, and claiming your element...but also letting others into that tightly bound circle. Shared understanding, otherwise known as human connection and love, is the driving force of all that inspires! [...]

Extrordinary and abundant giving is a virtue our society is not often familiar with. When creativity and the imagination of a child is added to the mix, they is contagious. This story shares the day my tiny daughter in a tutu and cowboy boots was gifted a horse form our Amish friends. [...]

This article reminisces a golden brand of integrity quickly becoming extinct in our hurried world where convenience is often counted above "doing the right thing." My father is the wisest man I know in his quiet composure and steadfast convictions. The lessons he taught me as a child carry over to my children as well. The heartland of America is known as the Bible Belt. Many feat that integrity is slipping away in this modern age. Books are written, documentaries are created...this article begs that integrity cannot be found in resolve, but in responses to the little things. Doing the right thing in a small moment with a small cost will lead to the strength to do the right thing in the big moments and at great cost. [...]