Sunday, September 15, 2013

Peru - Sacred Valley of the Incas

My first taste of Peru was the bustling city of Cusco (known as Qosqo in Quechua). There was a vibrant energy in this city that I just fell in love with. Unfortunately we didn't get enough time here but I was left feeling so enchanted that I vowed to come back as soon as I could.

Next up we met with our group and guide from G Adventures and headed out to the Sacred Valley. First stop was the Planeterra Weaving Community in the town of Ccaccaccollo (3600m above sea level). Below you can see the beautiful women and children from this community who showed us how they spin the alpaca wool, dye it with natural elements and then weave blankets, shawls and many more stunning pieces which can sometimes take months to produce just one piece! We also got to spend a little time with the alpacas and llamas, feeding them. 











Below is the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River. I was overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of this place. The Urubamba River is actually the start of the Amazon River. 




Next stop was the ancient town of Pisaq (3600m above sea level). The terraces you see below were all hand made by the Incas for crops and are still in use today.   




Just another day, standing amongst Inca ruins...

Below is the inside of a Chicheria - a place the sells chicha (corn beer). We watched a demonstration on how this was made and then ended our visit with a game of Juego de Sapo (the frog game).  

All images by Glenn Chiofalo for Looking Glass


My next post will be photos from the Inca Trail. The hardest but most rewarding thing I've ever done in my life! If you can't wait I already have some great snaps on instagram.

Where's the most enchanting place you've ever been to? I'd love to know.

Clare x



Monday, September 2, 2013

Giveaway!! Win Artwork by Musings From the Moon

images courtesy of musings from the moon

Like these beautiful, intricate artworks you see above? Well, you could win one!!

Meet Jenna Ramondo, the artist and the heart, hand and soul behind Musings from the Moon: A collection of intricate hand illustrated artworks inspired by quotes, nature, music and the universe. After studying a Bachelor of Visual Arts and working as a Graphic Designer, she found herself escaping the stresses of life by turning inwards and putting pen to paper ... And so Musings from the Moon began. 


"I never studied illustration and I like having no rules about technique. My favourite drawings are the ones that feel like they come from some place else, when I just show up with a pen and paper and forget the world. I don't think you need to study to be creative, I think anyone can tap into that place and that's where the magic happens. That's when everyone's individual gifts come out in the most unique and exciting ways."

"For as long as I can remember, I have loved quotes and inspiring words and have envisaged using them alongside my artwork to inspire and uplift other people. My main medium is black fine liner on art paper. I love using thin nib sizes so that I can create the intricate detail that features in most of my work." 

"The moon has always inspired me. When things get hectic in life, looking at the moon puts it all into perspective and turns my worries into a little spec compared to what is out there. I hope to give other people that piece of mind and inspiration by letting the moon and magical symbols fall from my hand and into my artwork."

Artworks are available as gift cards, prints, original artworks and one-of-a-kind message stones. You can purchase these online at www.musingsfromthemoon.bigcartel.com or at various markets in Melbourne, Geelong and the Surfcoast. Follow her creations on www.facebook.com/musingsfromthemoon or Instagram @musingsfromthemoon 

~

GIVEAWAY!

Jenna is giving away either a 5x7" print or stone (winner's choice) from her website. All you have to do to win is follow me here on Looking Glass, and follow "Musings from the Moon" on both facebook & instagram (@musingsfromthemoon). Leave a comment below saying which print or stone you'd like to win & why.

Entries close Monday 9th September 2013. Entries open only to Australian residents. Be sure to leave your email address so I can contact you if you're the lucky winner!

Clare x