Category Archives: Artist Travel

I Inspire …..by doing what I love

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I inspire . I do what I want . I do what I love. I do what makes me feel good …. this is alignment . When your in alignment amazing things happen. It’s a law of attraction.

I get calls or emails from time to time from people expressing gratitude and appreciation for sharing my story and my gift. It’s really touching that I reach people this way.I received a call , well actually 2 , just recently from women expressing gratitude for what I’ve done and created in my life. Sometimes these calls come along with questions of advice on how they should proceed….. Thats one area I don’t visit,simply because I operate on vibes, energy and intuition more so than business do’s and dont’s . My advice is- do what’s best for YOU.

My art, it’s my gift. My “business??? is centered around this gift. My belief is that ANYTHING is possible. Seems crazy to some, but perfectly logical to me:) I began and continue to thrive using a method of what feels good to me and what feels inspiring to guide me. Theres nothing traditional about what I do or how I run it…. that works for me. The reason this a effective for me is because I’m focused but I work when I’m feeling good and in the flow. The Universe LOVES when we feel good and vibes are high. As a result, we receive more of that good stuff.So,doing what you love is paramount… you’ll feel good, when you feel good, you get good- total win win all the way around!!!

I love what I do. It’s fun going to “work”. I relax knowing I have an amazing gift I share with people that love and appreciate what I have to offer. I am abundant in all positive ways regarding my art. Its fun being creative and connecting with people from all over the world. Thank you:)

Key West Artist Love Your LIfe Jennifer Montgomery of CrazyFaces FacePainting Philadelphia PA to Key West, FL www.jennifermontgomery.net

Key West Artist Love Your LIfe Jennifer Montgomery of CrazyFaces FacePainting Philadelphia PA to Key West, FL www.jennifermontgomery.net

Jennifer Montgomery owner/lead artist of CrazyFaces FacePainting happily creates and shares face painting and body art in the Philadelphia PA area to Key West, FL for parties and events of all kinds. www.jennifermontgomery.net

Loving the ART in Medellin, Colombia!

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I’m here in Medellin, Colombia for my first time ever and am so inspired by all of the amazing, beautiful art in this phenomenal city!! As a professional face and body art artist, I especially appreciate the tattoo art and tattoo shops all over Medellin. Aside from that, Medellin is very inspiring to an artist…the color, the energy, the flowers, the music, the fashion…. the list goes on. Theres so much everywhere I go that appeals to my creative side. The use of bold color here is inspiring and right up my artistic alley as I LOVE colors of the electric kind.

Medellin Colombia Street Art with Face and Body Artist Jennifer Montgomery of CrazyFaces FacePainting and Body Art Philadelphia to Key West www.jennifermontgomery.net

Medellin Colombia Street Art with Face and Body Artist Jennifer Montgomery of CrazyFaces FacePainting and Body Art Philadelphia to Key West www.jennifermontgomery.net


Just stepping outdoors in Medellin brings an abundance of gorgeous flowers and burts of green color with foliage everywhere. The city is situated in the mountains so its kind of like city life in the jungle in a way. One moment I’m walking alongside a stream of water in the trees and flowers, the next I’m in a metro city with tall buildings, its really fascinating to me.
Medellin Colombia Flowers with Face and Body Artist Jennifer Montgomery of CrazyFaces FacePainting and Body Art Philadelphia to Key West www.jennifermontgomery.net

Medellin Colombia Flowers with Face and Body Artist Jennifer Montgomery of CrazyFaces FacePainting and Body Art Philadelphia to Key West www.jennifermontgomery.net


The street art is incredible as there are a variety of canvases that art is displayed on, walls, garage doors, flower pots, building, rock, etc. The possibilities and creativity really get my ideas flowing:) The one thing I failed to pack was art materials mostly due to luggage restrictions with the airlines and my attempts to travel as minimally as possible yet feel comfortable during my time in Medellin. The atmosphere here is calm and peaceful but festive, perfect for creativity.
Medellin Colombia Albert Einstein Street Art with Face and Body Artist Jennifer Montgomery of CrazyFaces FacePainting and Body Art Philadelphia to Key West www.jennifermontgomery.net

Medellin Colombia Albert Einstein Street Art with Face and Body Artist Jennifer Montgomery of CrazyFaces FacePainting and Body Art Philadelphia to Key West www.jennifermontgomery.net


Medellin Colombia with Face and Body Artist Jennifer Montgomery of CrazyFaces FacePainting and Body Art Philadelphia to Key West www.jennifermontgomery.net

Medellin Colombia with Face and Body Artist Jennifer Montgomery of CrazyFaces FacePainting and Body Art Philadelphia to Key West www.jennifermontgomery.net


Contact Jennifer Montgomery of CrazyFaces FacePainting and Body Art for more info at www.jennifermontgomery.net

Key West Artist Travel to Cuba- Heart Inspiration

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So here I am again sharing about my time spent in Cuba. Its been such a learning experience for me and deepens my gratitude for the simple luxuries in life which we can easily take for granted in the United States. I also feel that what I’ve experienced after losing everything I had in the Florida Keys during Hurricane Irma is somewhat connected and equally profound… appreciate everything.

Jennifer Montgomery Philadelphia Key West Artist Travel to Rancho Luna Cuba www.jennifermontgomery.net

Cuba,as I’ve mentioned before… is sort of like entering a time capsule in a sense….. life there is simple and certainly less evolved than United States mainstream living. Its most definitely a mindset and lifestyle adjustment and very grounding. I went more prepared the past times I visited as opposed to the first trip. I knew how limited particular resources are so I brought things that were important for me to have during my time there,books to read, protein snacks, specific personal hygiene items, etc. Theres no Wal-Mart, or CVS, etc if you forget something , so make sure you have it or quite possibly go without. Whats there is there, and its not much. It offers an opportunity to realize that you can get by on less. Those necessities we think we need, maybe they are not so necessary after all. I,personally,although a minimalist, do have level of comfort of living preferences,but recognize that I can let go of my attachment to them and still be happy.

Jennifer Montgomery Philadelphia Key West Artist Travel to Castillo de Jagua Cuba www.jennifermontgomery.net


Jennifer Montgomery Philadelphia Key West Artist Travel to a Cuba www.jennifermontgomery.net

When I travel to Cuba, I go to Cienfuegos, specifically Castillo de Jagua,Cuba.It’s beautiful….. yet basic… very basic. It would be described by US standards as poverty, maybe it is,I prefer not to label it. I know that when I wake up there in loving arms,it really doesn’t matter. When I hear the chickens outside at 6am I feel a sense of comfort and peace. Its the simple things that I can find appreciation for and stay in that heart centered space. Its not about things, its more about energy… the music, the smiling faces, the generosity,thats what is most special to me about Cuba.

Jennifer Montgomery Philadelphia Key West Artist Travel to Cuba www.jennifermontgomery.net


Jennifer Montgomery Philadelphia Key West Artist Travel to a Cuba www.jennifermontgomery.net

I see Cuba as a place that offers the idea of simplicity to me.Although, I should add, in that simplicity nothing about Cuba is easy,starting with getting there. To get there from Key West which is only 90 miles from Cuba…. we must fly from Miami,about a 3hr ride from Key West …go figure. After flying from Miami to Santa Clara, its about a 2.5 hour car ride to Cienfuegos. The car ride is always a fun experience with me and my love in the front with the driver and the family that is there waiting to greet us piled in the back seat.Its squishy and close but I love it. Its all about family in Cuba, which is a shift from life in the US. Something I am learning to adjust to and embrace as I’m used to a more independent lifestyle.

Philadelphia Key West Artist Travel to Trinidad Cuba

Jennifer Montgomery Philadelphia Key West Artist Travel to Cuba www.jennifermontgomery.net

I’ve heard about people that have visited and found the scarcity of everyday comforts in Cuba to be problematic. If you go there expecting the everyday luxuries we take for granted in the U.S., your in for a big shock. I love learning about different cultures and truly it has helped me understand and connect the pieces from the experiences I’ve had through opportunities with my face painting and body art in the Philadelphia area and South Florida. We sometimes think of others differences as less than because perhaps we don’t understand another’s reality. I’ve visited and done face painting and body art events in areas what would be labeled depressed areas in Philadelphia but came away having some extremely beautiful connections because of it. I can say the same about Cuba, I could be turned off at the lack of my normal everyday comforts, its not for everybody, but my own heart centered personal reasons keep me going . Through this I learn to appreciate it and be more grateful for every blessing in my own life. In the U.S.,I can go to a grocery store and select that I want to eat based on what I’m in the mood for, that is not happening in Cuba. Perhaps in touristy areas but I have not visited such places yet. I do recognize that much of our food supply in US grocery stores is a “product” rather than a natural source of nourishment, so theres a commercialism piece lacking in Cuba which I find fulfilling in many ways. On another note,I can go to a store and buy clothes I love and feel good in the U.S., not happening in Cuba either. This tech world we live in in the US… mucho limited in Cuba. As in, if I want to connect I must find a WiFi friendly area and pray to connect…. probably slowly. Imagine a world free from materialism and capitalism? No billboards, strip malls, chain stores, restuarants , etc… thats real life in Cuba, I personally think its wonderful as things or outside resources like that never bring true fulfillment anyway.

Jennifer Montgomery Philadelphia Key West Artist Travel to Cuba www.jennifermontgomery.net

In closing, for me Cuba has brought me to a deeper state of acceptance, compassion, love and patience . Its definitely helped shift my perspective on many topics and of course bring me to a deeper appreciation for this life and the blessings in it. I feel grateful and appreciative while I’m there for the simplicity of life, happiness just because and focus on everyday tasks. Life is what it is, go with the flow and be happy.

Jennifer Montgomery Philadelphia Key West Artist Travel to Cuba www.jennifermontgomery.net

The gift of gratitude from Cuba to Key West

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This and every holiday season brings me to a place of gratitude and intention setting for the new year. 2017 in particular has been very profound in regards to gratitude. ALOT has manifested , a lot has changed, I am so grateful for everything. I continue to appreciate this life and the moments we have and the amazing opportunities we are presented with each day. Experiencing the effects of Hurricane Irma, which I could have allowed to shatter my dreams, and also traveling to Cuba and experiencing life there, has brought a deeper sense of appreciation for the little things in this life … Love,family,loyalty,friendship,food,water, and freedom.

Cienfuegos Cuba Hotel Jennifer Montgomery Key West Artist Philadelphia Miami www.jennifermontgomery.net

Cienfuegos Cuba Hotel Jennifer Montgomery Key West Artist Philadelphia Miami www.jennifermontgomery.net

My first trip to Cuba came upon me unexpectedly. I was in the midst of what felt like absolute chaos in my life and a derailment from the plan I had. That seems to be the theme of the spiritual awakening journey I’ve found myself on over the past few years. As a result, I’ve learned to surrender, accept and roll along with it …. like a blank slate . I went to Cuba out of love,curiosity and an opportunity to experience the reality of Cuban people. I appreciate different cultures and have traveled to several different countries. I appreciate experiencing life as the locals do. I can honestly say that my experience in Cuba was by far the deepest and most meaningful I’ve had so far.

Cienfuegos Cuba Castillo de Jagua

Cienfuegos Cuba Castillo de Jagua

I’ve wanted to travel to Cuba since the very first time I saw it on the travel channel about 15 yrs ago. I remember watching a show about the island on TV from Philadelphia and really having a strong desire to visit the island… the beautifully colored water really resonated with me. I’ve felt curious and intrigued with Cuban people for awhile. I think about the courage it takes to want an escape from your homeland so deeply that one will get on a boat and take a chance at a better life not knowing what is on the other side besides a dream of what one thinks it is. As I’ve written before, my life is divinely guided by spirit and I believe in a divine plan. So, a couple of years ago in Key West I met a beautiful man… he’s Cuban…… I had no idea what was going to evolve would be a love story but here’s a snippet of my first experience in Cuba.

Cienfuegos Cuba Castillo de Jagua Jennifer Montgomery Key West Artist Philadelphia Miami www.jennifermontgomery.net

Cienfuegos Cuba Castillo de Jagua Jennifer Montgomery Key West Artist Philadelphia Miami www.jennifermontgomery.net

This trip, October 2017, was probably one of the most organic experiences I’ve ever had. I was excited despite the news reports about so called sonic attacks and lack of US Embassy staff. A friend practically begged me NOT to go, but…. me being me, I followed my heart and own intuition. Immediately ,I noticed that visiting Cuba is like traveling back in time. I should add that this trip was not to a heavily tourist populated area.The landing spot was Santa Clara,Cuba. Upon landing,the evidence of the effects of Hurricane Irma were obvious. Aside from that,the energy felt,slow,peaceful,polite and quiet. Again, It’s an absolute shift in reality which is noticeable right away. Initially,I noticed the cars,(which are awesome) are from the 1950’s,fashion is different than in the US… Looking good is a priority in Cuba it seemed. Also,Cuba operates with their own money system.Paper and coins, no electronic funds,make sure you have Cuban money to get what you need !Leave your cell phone ALONE. There is no international calling or data plan for Cuba, put the phone down, be present or pay a ridiculous bill ( I can attest to this, I did it) People are friendly and seem willing to help each other out which was nice and comforting. Another interesting thing I quickly learned … Have your own toilet paper on hand,each public restroom in Santa Clara AND Cienfuegos that I visited didn’t offer any .???????????????? Certainly,little everyday things we take for granted in the US were not readily available in Cuba.

Cienfuegos Cuba Castillo de Jagua Jennifer Montgomery Key West Artist Philadelphia Miami www.jennifermontgomery.net

Cienfuegos Cuba Castillo de Jagua Jennifer Montgomery Key West Artist Philadelphia Miami www.jennifermontgomery.net

Cienfuegos Cuba Castillo de Jagua Jennifer Montgomery Key West Artist Philadelphia Miami www.jennifermontgomery.net

Cienfuegos Cuba Castillo de Jagua Jennifer Montgomery Key West Artist Philadelphia Miami www.jennifermontgomery.net

My time there was very eye opening and touched my heart. People are very happy despite the lack of luxuries we have in the US. I appreciated that very much. We have opportunities for more “stuff” and “things” in the US but also a strong disconnect from each other in many places as well. Experiencing and observing the people of Cuba, I felt a connection and deep compassion for the people of this country for some reason. As an American,there’s many things we take for granted. Something simple like an abundance of food choices,or job choices or living options. That’s simply not the case in Cuba as I noticed .The one word that speaks to me is- opportunity. We have so many opportunities in the US, the freedom to choose, to aspire, to set goals and to grow as human beings to our fullest potential. I felt a sense of suppression while I was there. For me, getting up and doing the same thing day after day would drain my spirit. Simple, basic everyday living requires efforts we know nothing about in mainstream USA. For example, you want to shower, you might have to get your water in a bucket and no it won’t be hot. Food? No supermarket or fast food drive through….. acquire it and cook it yourself. Travel? Well… you can walk, ride a horse, take a boat or bicycle. Daily reminders to appreciate everything.

I saw so much potential in the spirit of these people but nowhere for it to be nurtured. Somehow the people manage to be happy and welcoming. It seems as though the focus is on being happy in the moment, which is in direct correlation with my view of life – anything is possible and life, to me is about meaningful moments … We can choose to make the best or worst of our lives with our minds , perception and belief system . The sense of gratitude I felt upon returning to the US was immense I’m mostly a very present, peacoefilled, balanced, calm person but this really brought a deeper sense of that to me and for that I am grateful.

Happy Holidays and 2018 to everyone:) Peace, love, sunshine and sparkles:)
www.jennifermontgomery.net
Face Painting and Body Art in Philadelphia, Miami and Key West call 610.764.0853