Showing posts with label Whim. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Whim. Show all posts



Welcome to the colorful world of watercolor painting! Whether you're a complete beginner or someone who wants to explore a new artistic medium, this comprehensive guide will help you dive into the beautiful and fascinating world of watercolors. Painting with watercolors is a fun, versatile, and expressive form of art that allows you to create stunning works of art with just a brush, water, and vibrant pigments. So, grab your brushes, relax, and let's embark on this creative journey together!

Gather Your Supplies:

Before you start painting, it's essential to gather the right materials. Here's a beginner-friendly list of supplies to get you started.

*These are affiliate links, so if you make a purchase I will get a small fee.
  • Watercolor paints: Opt for a basic set of watercolor paints with a variety of colors. My Winsor & Newton Cotman palette was my very first set of watercolors and has served me well over the years.

  • Watercolor paper: Choose acid-free, heavyweight paper (140 lb is ideal) specifically designed for watercolor painting. Canson makes good watercolor paper. It's perfect for someone just starting out as it's affordable and doesn't warp or tear easily. But my favorite watercolor paper has to be Arches. It's a little pricey, but takes the paint so beautifully...

  • Brushes: Invest in a set of synthetic brushes in various sizes (round and flat) to achieve different effects. These are NOT Kolinksi brushes, but they are great for a beginner.

  • Palette: Use a ceramic, glass or hard plastic palette to mix and blend your watercolor paints. This is my favorite palette at the moment, but you should experiment and see what you like best.

  • Water containers: Keep a container of clean water nearby for rinsing your brushes, and a second container of clean water for activating and diluting your paints. I use a couple old spaghetti sauce jars ;) 

  • Masking tape: Use masking tape to secure your paper to a flat surface. Washi tape also works fairly well for this purpose. I've had great experiences with this tape =)

  • Paper towels: Keep some paper towels handy for blotting excess water and paint. You can also use a dish towel or hand towel. Just nothing too fuzzy or you will transfer the fuzz to your painting.


Get to Know Your Watercolors:

Understanding your watercolors is crucial for achieving the desired effects. Here's an expanded explanation of some essential terms to familiarize yourself with:

a) Pigments:

Watercolor paints are made up of pigments, which are finely ground colored particles. These pigments come in a wide range of colors and vary in their characteristics. Some pigments are more transparent, while others are more opaque. Each pigment has its unique qualities, such as granulation (the tendency to settle into textured patterns) or staining (the ability to leave permanent marks on the paper). Experimenting with different pigments will help you discover their individual characteristics and how they interact with each other.

b) Translucency:

One of the distinctive qualities of watercolors is their transparency. When you apply watercolor to paper, the pigments allow light to pass through them, creating luminosity and a sense of depth. This transparency is what gives watercolor paintings their ethereal and delicate quality. By layering washes of transparent colors, you can achieve rich and vibrant hues.

c) Washes:

A wash is a technique where you apply a layer of diluted paint over a large area of your paper. It allows you to create smooth gradients and unified backgrounds. There are two main types of washes: the graded wash and the flat wash.

Graded wash: To create a graded wash, start by wetting your paper with clean water. Then, load your brush with diluted paint and apply it to the top of the wet area. Tilt your paper slightly, allowing the paint to flow downward. As you move down the paper, gradually add more water to your brush, creating a lighter tone. This technique produces a smooth transition of color from dark to light.

Flat wash: A flat wash is a consistent application of color over a large area without any variation in tone. To create a flat wash, wet your paper evenly, then load your brush with a well-mixed pigment and apply it in a single, even stroke. Work quickly to ensure the wash remains smooth and free of streaks. If needed, you can tilt the paper to help the paint spread evenly.

d) Wet-on-Wet:

The wet-on-wet technique involves applying wet paint onto a wet surface. By doing so, you can create soft, blended effects and allow colors to mix organically on the paper. Wetting the paper before applying the paint helps the colors flow and blend more easily. This technique is ideal for creating atmospheric backgrounds, skies, and water reflections.

To use the wet-on-wet technique, wet the desired area of your paper with clean water using a brush or a spray bottle. While the surface is still wet, apply diluted paint to the wet area, allowing the colors to blend naturally. You can tilt the paper or gently manipulate it to guide the flow of the pigments. Remember that this technique can be unpredictable, so embrace the unexpected results and let them inspire your creativity.

e) Dry Brush:

The dry brush technique involves using less water and more pigment, creating a textured effect with visible brushstrokes. It's particularly useful for adding fine details and creating texture in your paintings. To execute this technique, load your brush with a small amount of paint and make sure it is relatively dry by blotting it on a paper towel. Then, apply the paint using short, controlled strokes, allowing the texture of the paper to show through. This technique is perfect for capturing the intricate details of foliage, texture, or adding highlights to your artwork.



Start Painting:

Now that you have your supplies and an understanding of basic techniques, it's time to put your brush to paper and bring your creative visions to life. Here are some steps to guide you through the painting process:

a) Plan Your Painting:

Before you start painting, take a moment to plan your artwork. Visualize the composition, consider the subject matter, and lightly draw a rough sketch on your watercolor paper using an hb pencil. This initial sketch will serve as a guideline for your painting, helping you maintain proportion and balance. 

b) Start with Light Colors:

When beginning your painting, it's generally recommended to start with lighter colors and gradually build up the intensity and details. Light colors are easier to adjust and work with, and they create a foundation for the rest of your artwork. Apply light washes or glazes of color to establish the basic shapes and forms.

c) Work from Background to Foreground:

To create depth and a sense of space in your painting, it's often helpful to work from the background to the foreground. Start by painting the background elements, allowing them to dry before moving on to the middle ground and foreground details. This approach helps establish a sense of distance and allows you to layer objects realistically.

d) Experiment and Have Fun:

Watercolor painting is all about experimentation and embracing the unpredictable nature of the medium. Don't be afraid to try new techniques, play with different colors, and explore various subjects. Allow yourself the freedom to make mistakes and learn from them. Some of the most interesting and beautiful effects can emerge from unexpected outcomes.

e) Practice Patience:

Watercolor painting requires patience, as you often need to wait for layers to dry before applying the next. Be mindful of the drying times and use this waiting period to observe your artwork and plan your next steps. Patience is key to achieving the desired effects and allowing your painting to evolve gradually.

f) Embrace Mistakes:

Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process, and they can even lead to unexpected discoveries and creative breakthroughs. If you make a mistake, don't get discouraged. Instead, embrace it as an opportunity to learn and grow as an artist. Watercolors are forgiving in many ways, and you can often lift or adjust paint with a damp brush or paper towel. Remember, each mistake is a stepping stone towards improvement.

g) Keep Practicing:

Consistent practice is the key to improving your skills and developing your unique style as a watercolor artist. Set aside regular time for painting and dedicate yourself to exploring new techniques, subjects, and styles. As you continue to paint, you'll gain confidence, refine your skills, and develop your artistic voice.

h) Seek Inspiration:

Inspiration can be found everywhere, from nature to art galleries, books, and online resources. Surround yourself with the works of other watercolor artists, study their techniques, and observe how they use colors and create textures. Additionally, connect with other artists through workshops, classes, or online communities to share ideas, seek feedback, and grow together.

Tips for Success:

To enhance your watercolor painting experience and improve your skills, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

a) Use High-Quality Materials:

Investing in good-quality watercolor paints, paper, and brushes can significantly impact the outcome of your paintings. High-quality materials often provide better pigmentation, color mixing capabilities, and paper that can withstand the water and pigments without buckling or deteriorating. While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper options when starting out, investing in quality supplies will yield better results and make your painting process more enjoyable.

b) Practice Color Mixing:

Color mixing is a fundamental skill in watercolor painting. Experiment with mixing different pigments to create unique shades, tones, and gradients. Get familiar with the color wheel and learn about primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. By understanding color theory, you'll be able to create harmonious and visually appealing compositions.

c) Control Water-to-Paint Ratio:

The amount of water you use while painting affects the intensity and transparency of the paint. Experiment with different water-to-paint ratios to achieve the desired effect. A higher water ratio will result in more transparent and diluted colors, while using less water will create more vibrant and opaque hues. Practice finding the right balance for your desired outcomes.

d) Embrace the Unique Properties of Watercolors:

Watercolor paints have their own unique characteristics, such as translucency, the ability to create delicate washes, and the possibility of layering to create depth. Embrace these qualities and learn to work with them rather than against them. Explore the flow and diffusion of colors on the paper and embrace the spontaneous nature of the medium. Allow the water and pigments to interact and create beautiful, unexpected effects.

e) Learn from Mistakes and Experiment:

Don't be afraid to make mistakes and view them as learning opportunities. Watercolor painting is a journey of exploration, and experimentation is encouraged. Try different techniques, play with textures, and take risks with your compositions. Some of the most exciting discoveries can arise from embracing unexpected outcomes. Embrace imperfections and use them to push the boundaries of your creativity.

f) Develop a Sense of Observation:

Developing a keen eye for observation is crucial for creating realistic and expressive watercolor paintings. Train yourself to notice the subtle variations in colors, shadows, and textures in your surroundings. Practice sketching from life and studying the way light interacts with objects. By honing your observation skills, you'll be better equipped to translate what you see onto the paper.

g) Practice Regularly and Maintain a Sketchbook:

Consistent practice is key to improving your watercolor skills. Set aside dedicated time for painting and make it a habit to practice regularly. Additionally, maintain a sketchbook to capture ideas, sketch compositions, and experiment with new techniques. Your sketchbook can serve as a valuable resource for inspiration and a record of your artistic progress.

h) Seek Feedback and Learn from Others:

Don't hesitate to seek feedback from other artists or join art communities. Share your work with fellow artists, participate in workshops, or join online forums and social media groups dedicated to watercolor painting. Engaging with others who share your passion for watercolors can provide valuable insights, constructive criticism, and inspiration to further develop your skills.

i) Be Patient and Enjoy the Process:

Watercolor painting requires patience and a willingness to embrace the unpredictability of the medium. Allow yourself time to learn and grow as an artist. Enjoy the process of creating, from the initial sketch to the final brushstroke. Remember that each artwork is a stepping stone on your creative journey.

By following these tips and incorporating them into your watercolor practice, you'll continue to improve your skills, develop your artistic style, and create captivating and expressive watercolor paintings. Enjoy the journey, embrace the learning process, and let your creativity flow freely on the paper.

The Beginner's Guide to Painting with Watercolors: Unleash Your Creativity!

Monday, June 5, 2023



Welcome to the colorful world of watercolor painting! Whether you're a complete beginner or someone who wants to explore a new artistic medium, this comprehensive guide will help you dive into the beautiful and fascinating world of watercolors. Painting with watercolors is a fun, versatile, and expressive form of art that allows you to create stunning works of art with just a brush, water, and vibrant pigments. So, grab your brushes, relax, and let's embark on this creative journey together!

Gather Your Supplies:

Before you start painting, it's essential to gather the right materials. Here's a beginner-friendly list of supplies to get you started.

*These are affiliate links, so if you make a purchase I will get a small fee.
  • Watercolor paints: Opt for a basic set of watercolor paints with a variety of colors. My Winsor & Newton Cotman palette was my very first set of watercolors and has served me well over the years.

  • Watercolor paper: Choose acid-free, heavyweight paper (140 lb is ideal) specifically designed for watercolor painting. Canson makes good watercolor paper. It's perfect for someone just starting out as it's affordable and doesn't warp or tear easily. But my favorite watercolor paper has to be Arches. It's a little pricey, but takes the paint so beautifully...

  • Brushes: Invest in a set of synthetic brushes in various sizes (round and flat) to achieve different effects. These are NOT Kolinksi brushes, but they are great for a beginner.

  • Palette: Use a ceramic, glass or hard plastic palette to mix and blend your watercolor paints. This is my favorite palette at the moment, but you should experiment and see what you like best.

  • Water containers: Keep a container of clean water nearby for rinsing your brushes, and a second container of clean water for activating and diluting your paints. I use a couple old spaghetti sauce jars ;) 

  • Masking tape: Use masking tape to secure your paper to a flat surface. Washi tape also works fairly well for this purpose. I've had great experiences with this tape =)

  • Paper towels: Keep some paper towels handy for blotting excess water and paint. You can also use a dish towel or hand towel. Just nothing too fuzzy or you will transfer the fuzz to your painting.


Get to Know Your Watercolors:

Understanding your watercolors is crucial for achieving the desired effects. Here's an expanded explanation of some essential terms to familiarize yourself with:

a) Pigments:

Watercolor paints are made up of pigments, which are finely ground colored particles. These pigments come in a wide range of colors and vary in their characteristics. Some pigments are more transparent, while others are more opaque. Each pigment has its unique qualities, such as granulation (the tendency to settle into textured patterns) or staining (the ability to leave permanent marks on the paper). Experimenting with different pigments will help you discover their individual characteristics and how they interact with each other.

b) Translucency:

One of the distinctive qualities of watercolors is their transparency. When you apply watercolor to paper, the pigments allow light to pass through them, creating luminosity and a sense of depth. This transparency is what gives watercolor paintings their ethereal and delicate quality. By layering washes of transparent colors, you can achieve rich and vibrant hues.

c) Washes:

A wash is a technique where you apply a layer of diluted paint over a large area of your paper. It allows you to create smooth gradients and unified backgrounds. There are two main types of washes: the graded wash and the flat wash.

Graded wash: To create a graded wash, start by wetting your paper with clean water. Then, load your brush with diluted paint and apply it to the top of the wet area. Tilt your paper slightly, allowing the paint to flow downward. As you move down the paper, gradually add more water to your brush, creating a lighter tone. This technique produces a smooth transition of color from dark to light.

Flat wash: A flat wash is a consistent application of color over a large area without any variation in tone. To create a flat wash, wet your paper evenly, then load your brush with a well-mixed pigment and apply it in a single, even stroke. Work quickly to ensure the wash remains smooth and free of streaks. If needed, you can tilt the paper to help the paint spread evenly.

d) Wet-on-Wet:

The wet-on-wet technique involves applying wet paint onto a wet surface. By doing so, you can create soft, blended effects and allow colors to mix organically on the paper. Wetting the paper before applying the paint helps the colors flow and blend more easily. This technique is ideal for creating atmospheric backgrounds, skies, and water reflections.

To use the wet-on-wet technique, wet the desired area of your paper with clean water using a brush or a spray bottle. While the surface is still wet, apply diluted paint to the wet area, allowing the colors to blend naturally. You can tilt the paper or gently manipulate it to guide the flow of the pigments. Remember that this technique can be unpredictable, so embrace the unexpected results and let them inspire your creativity.

e) Dry Brush:

The dry brush technique involves using less water and more pigment, creating a textured effect with visible brushstrokes. It's particularly useful for adding fine details and creating texture in your paintings. To execute this technique, load your brush with a small amount of paint and make sure it is relatively dry by blotting it on a paper towel. Then, apply the paint using short, controlled strokes, allowing the texture of the paper to show through. This technique is perfect for capturing the intricate details of foliage, texture, or adding highlights to your artwork.



Start Painting:

Now that you have your supplies and an understanding of basic techniques, it's time to put your brush to paper and bring your creative visions to life. Here are some steps to guide you through the painting process:

a) Plan Your Painting:

Before you start painting, take a moment to plan your artwork. Visualize the composition, consider the subject matter, and lightly draw a rough sketch on your watercolor paper using an hb pencil. This initial sketch will serve as a guideline for your painting, helping you maintain proportion and balance. 

b) Start with Light Colors:

When beginning your painting, it's generally recommended to start with lighter colors and gradually build up the intensity and details. Light colors are easier to adjust and work with, and they create a foundation for the rest of your artwork. Apply light washes or glazes of color to establish the basic shapes and forms.

c) Work from Background to Foreground:

To create depth and a sense of space in your painting, it's often helpful to work from the background to the foreground. Start by painting the background elements, allowing them to dry before moving on to the middle ground and foreground details. This approach helps establish a sense of distance and allows you to layer objects realistically.

d) Experiment and Have Fun:

Watercolor painting is all about experimentation and embracing the unpredictable nature of the medium. Don't be afraid to try new techniques, play with different colors, and explore various subjects. Allow yourself the freedom to make mistakes and learn from them. Some of the most interesting and beautiful effects can emerge from unexpected outcomes.

e) Practice Patience:

Watercolor painting requires patience, as you often need to wait for layers to dry before applying the next. Be mindful of the drying times and use this waiting period to observe your artwork and plan your next steps. Patience is key to achieving the desired effects and allowing your painting to evolve gradually.

f) Embrace Mistakes:

Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process, and they can even lead to unexpected discoveries and creative breakthroughs. If you make a mistake, don't get discouraged. Instead, embrace it as an opportunity to learn and grow as an artist. Watercolors are forgiving in many ways, and you can often lift or adjust paint with a damp brush or paper towel. Remember, each mistake is a stepping stone towards improvement.

g) Keep Practicing:

Consistent practice is the key to improving your skills and developing your unique style as a watercolor artist. Set aside regular time for painting and dedicate yourself to exploring new techniques, subjects, and styles. As you continue to paint, you'll gain confidence, refine your skills, and develop your artistic voice.

h) Seek Inspiration:

Inspiration can be found everywhere, from nature to art galleries, books, and online resources. Surround yourself with the works of other watercolor artists, study their techniques, and observe how they use colors and create textures. Additionally, connect with other artists through workshops, classes, or online communities to share ideas, seek feedback, and grow together.

Tips for Success:

To enhance your watercolor painting experience and improve your skills, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

a) Use High-Quality Materials:

Investing in good-quality watercolor paints, paper, and brushes can significantly impact the outcome of your paintings. High-quality materials often provide better pigmentation, color mixing capabilities, and paper that can withstand the water and pigments without buckling or deteriorating. While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper options when starting out, investing in quality supplies will yield better results and make your painting process more enjoyable.

b) Practice Color Mixing:

Color mixing is a fundamental skill in watercolor painting. Experiment with mixing different pigments to create unique shades, tones, and gradients. Get familiar with the color wheel and learn about primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. By understanding color theory, you'll be able to create harmonious and visually appealing compositions.

c) Control Water-to-Paint Ratio:

The amount of water you use while painting affects the intensity and transparency of the paint. Experiment with different water-to-paint ratios to achieve the desired effect. A higher water ratio will result in more transparent and diluted colors, while using less water will create more vibrant and opaque hues. Practice finding the right balance for your desired outcomes.

d) Embrace the Unique Properties of Watercolors:

Watercolor paints have their own unique characteristics, such as translucency, the ability to create delicate washes, and the possibility of layering to create depth. Embrace these qualities and learn to work with them rather than against them. Explore the flow and diffusion of colors on the paper and embrace the spontaneous nature of the medium. Allow the water and pigments to interact and create beautiful, unexpected effects.

e) Learn from Mistakes and Experiment:

Don't be afraid to make mistakes and view them as learning opportunities. Watercolor painting is a journey of exploration, and experimentation is encouraged. Try different techniques, play with textures, and take risks with your compositions. Some of the most exciting discoveries can arise from embracing unexpected outcomes. Embrace imperfections and use them to push the boundaries of your creativity.

f) Develop a Sense of Observation:

Developing a keen eye for observation is crucial for creating realistic and expressive watercolor paintings. Train yourself to notice the subtle variations in colors, shadows, and textures in your surroundings. Practice sketching from life and studying the way light interacts with objects. By honing your observation skills, you'll be better equipped to translate what you see onto the paper.

g) Practice Regularly and Maintain a Sketchbook:

Consistent practice is key to improving your watercolor skills. Set aside dedicated time for painting and make it a habit to practice regularly. Additionally, maintain a sketchbook to capture ideas, sketch compositions, and experiment with new techniques. Your sketchbook can serve as a valuable resource for inspiration and a record of your artistic progress.

h) Seek Feedback and Learn from Others:

Don't hesitate to seek feedback from other artists or join art communities. Share your work with fellow artists, participate in workshops, or join online forums and social media groups dedicated to watercolor painting. Engaging with others who share your passion for watercolors can provide valuable insights, constructive criticism, and inspiration to further develop your skills.

i) Be Patient and Enjoy the Process:

Watercolor painting requires patience and a willingness to embrace the unpredictability of the medium. Allow yourself time to learn and grow as an artist. Enjoy the process of creating, from the initial sketch to the final brushstroke. Remember that each artwork is a stepping stone on your creative journey.

By following these tips and incorporating them into your watercolor practice, you'll continue to improve your skills, develop your artistic style, and create captivating and expressive watercolor paintings. Enjoy the journey, embrace the learning process, and let your creativity flow freely on the paper.


I've admired watercolor artwork for as long as I've known what to call it. 

It has such an ethereal quality when used loosely.

It's almost romantic, in a way.

Every year I tell myself it's going to be the year I learn how to use watercolor to bring my own dreams to life.

And then life gets in the way and I don't.

But recently, after a little meltdown at the end of summer, I said, "to hell with this!" and just made time happen.

It's an act of self care I tell ya.

I've managed 8 - 10 practice sessions now, I think.

At first, I followed tutorials on YouTube, specifically from Nianiania.

I never stop following tutorials really. They are a great way to get your creative juices stirring when you hit a block.

But after a few of her fantastic tutorials, I decided to try some things of my own, and the thing I liked best was my mushroom skull (above)

I was looking for inspiration and found this really cool skull home decor (?) and I thought the concept would be great for a watercolor painting.


And that is how I found the motivation to step out of the tutorials and do my own thing.

I've worked on a few more things that didn't turn out but I learned something new with every failure, and though I was not happy with the results, the practice still helped me build muscle memory and from that - better brush control.

I learned to step away when I became frustrated. To go do something else for a little while, when that inner critic - the "Nega Nanny" as I call her, started pestering me about how I am not good enough and never will be. 

I sat down a few days ago to do my own version of Nianiania's recent abstract mushroom tutorial.

I actually did pretty good until I started working on the background and picked all the wrong colors.

It was a tired person's mistake, because if I know anything, it's colors.

But the mistake frustrated me, so I closed up shop for the evening.

Then today, after catching a willowing video in my YouTube recommendations, I went back (mentally) to ye' old days of Lifebook 2013? I think. I ended up signing up for Life Book twice. 2012 or 2013, then I skipped a year.

Unfortunately, I didn't touch a single lesson the second-go-round, but I did quite a few from the first and it was from that era in my art adventures that I was inspired to create an art journal page.

"Worthy as I am"


I was so happy with the end result, I cut it down to fit in this fabulous frame I found thrift shopping a few years ago but could never find just the right artwork for.

Tamara Laporte teaches art in a very self-care, art therapy sort of way. I have no idea if she is certified for any of this, but I was going through a lot when I found her Life Book back in the early 2010s and it was exactly what I needed at that time.

So, certified or not, her internet presence was a boon to my existence.

Strangely enough, I am in a similar space right now.

After having weight loss surgery almost 4 years ago, I've had regain. 

50ish lbs of regain.

I've re-gained half of what I lost after the surgery.

Perhaps it's partly due to the emotional stress I've been under. 

The first year or so after the surgery, I had so much unfamiliar energy, I could not sit still and I let my little hobby business basically dissolve into nothing.

After a couple years now of trying to build it back up, the momentum is gone.

So, having potentially failed at weight loss surgery, and having let my little business turn to dust, I have been feeling the lowest I have felt in a very long time.

I have been down and out. Flat on my ass.

TKOed. 

But not quite.

Fortunately, I am no quitter. 

I am an ALMOST quitter. 

But I seldom stay down for long.

As far as the regain, I'm considering making a whole post about that, but to keep it short, I've gone back to the basics with a "pouch reset". 

I won't go into my thoughts about "pouch resets" on this post, but I think it has helped me get back on track and I'm modestly hopeful that I will get the regain off. 

And as you may already know, I closed and re-opened my Etsy shop

Did I tell you that Etsy literally takes 1/3 of every individual digi sale I make? 

Were it not a source of passive income (after I create and upload the images) it would be a complete loss. And if I don't sell at least 10 of each image I upload, it is still a loss. 

Which is why I like Patreon. The fees are not as awful, but unfortunately, a lot of people are scared off by subscriptions. 

Which I get because it drives me crazy that literally everything is a subscription now. 

So, although it looks very dismal right now, I am still pressing forward with trying to rebuild the hobby business and getting my head together so I can get my weight (and health) back on track.

But even if I am not capable of earning with my art ever again, and even if I never lose another lb - or even if I gain another 50 lbs!!! - I still have value. I am still worthy of love and happiness and my place in this world.

And I needed that reminder very much today.

So I've framed my purple eyed girl to hang here in the office/studio/dining room (lol) as a reminder. 

I am not a lesser person if I am not capable of earning a proper living.

I am not a lesser person if I am overweight.

I am worthy as I am, right now, in this moment and in every moment.

And in case you need a reminder -

You are worthy too

Playing in Watercolors: Worthy As I Am

Saturday, November 20, 2021


I've admired watercolor artwork for as long as I've known what to call it. 

It has such an ethereal quality when used loosely.

It's almost romantic, in a way.

Every year I tell myself it's going to be the year I learn how to use watercolor to bring my own dreams to life.

And then life gets in the way and I don't.

But recently, after a little meltdown at the end of summer, I said, "to hell with this!" and just made time happen.

It's an act of self care I tell ya.

I've managed 8 - 10 practice sessions now, I think.

At first, I followed tutorials on YouTube, specifically from Nianiania.

I never stop following tutorials really. They are a great way to get your creative juices stirring when you hit a block.

But after a few of her fantastic tutorials, I decided to try some things of my own, and the thing I liked best was my mushroom skull (above)

I was looking for inspiration and found this really cool skull home decor (?) and I thought the concept would be great for a watercolor painting.


And that is how I found the motivation to step out of the tutorials and do my own thing.

I've worked on a few more things that didn't turn out but I learned something new with every failure, and though I was not happy with the results, the practice still helped me build muscle memory and from that - better brush control.

I learned to step away when I became frustrated. To go do something else for a little while, when that inner critic - the "Nega Nanny" as I call her, started pestering me about how I am not good enough and never will be. 

I sat down a few days ago to do my own version of Nianiania's recent abstract mushroom tutorial.

I actually did pretty good until I started working on the background and picked all the wrong colors.

It was a tired person's mistake, because if I know anything, it's colors.

But the mistake frustrated me, so I closed up shop for the evening.

Then today, after catching a willowing video in my YouTube recommendations, I went back (mentally) to ye' old days of Lifebook 2013? I think. I ended up signing up for Life Book twice. 2012 or 2013, then I skipped a year.

Unfortunately, I didn't touch a single lesson the second-go-round, but I did quite a few from the first and it was from that era in my art adventures that I was inspired to create an art journal page.

"Worthy as I am"


I was so happy with the end result, I cut it down to fit in this fabulous frame I found thrift shopping a few years ago but could never find just the right artwork for.

Tamara Laporte teaches art in a very self-care, art therapy sort of way. I have no idea if she is certified for any of this, but I was going through a lot when I found her Life Book back in the early 2010s and it was exactly what I needed at that time.

So, certified or not, her internet presence was a boon to my existence.

Strangely enough, I am in a similar space right now.

After having weight loss surgery almost 4 years ago, I've had regain. 

50ish lbs of regain.

I've re-gained half of what I lost after the surgery.

Perhaps it's partly due to the emotional stress I've been under. 

The first year or so after the surgery, I had so much unfamiliar energy, I could not sit still and I let my little hobby business basically dissolve into nothing.

After a couple years now of trying to build it back up, the momentum is gone.

So, having potentially failed at weight loss surgery, and having let my little business turn to dust, I have been feeling the lowest I have felt in a very long time.

I have been down and out. Flat on my ass.

TKOed. 

But not quite.

Fortunately, I am no quitter. 

I am an ALMOST quitter. 

But I seldom stay down for long.

As far as the regain, I'm considering making a whole post about that, but to keep it short, I've gone back to the basics with a "pouch reset". 

I won't go into my thoughts about "pouch resets" on this post, but I think it has helped me get back on track and I'm modestly hopeful that I will get the regain off. 

And as you may already know, I closed and re-opened my Etsy shop

Did I tell you that Etsy literally takes 1/3 of every individual digi sale I make? 

Were it not a source of passive income (after I create and upload the images) it would be a complete loss. And if I don't sell at least 10 of each image I upload, it is still a loss. 

Which is why I like Patreon. The fees are not as awful, but unfortunately, a lot of people are scared off by subscriptions. 

Which I get because it drives me crazy that literally everything is a subscription now. 

So, although it looks very dismal right now, I am still pressing forward with trying to rebuild the hobby business and getting my head together so I can get my weight (and health) back on track.

But even if I am not capable of earning with my art ever again, and even if I never lose another lb - or even if I gain another 50 lbs!!! - I still have value. I am still worthy of love and happiness and my place in this world.

And I needed that reminder very much today.

So I've framed my purple eyed girl to hang here in the office/studio/dining room (lol) as a reminder. 

I am not a lesser person if I am not capable of earning a proper living.

I am not a lesser person if I am overweight.

I am worthy as I am, right now, in this moment and in every moment.

And in case you need a reminder -

You are worthy too

 




My husband has been asking me to make art of him for a while now. 

He wants himself as a knight with a big sword or something along those lines.

And maybe, one day, I'll do that for him.

But mostly I'll draw him the way I see him.

Just like I did my last husband =)

And so I did this piece of him and his mean, mean Jenday conure, Max.

This bird hates me. It's the first pet I've ever had that has disliked me, and even worse - he bites me!

But my husband loves him. So I just stay out of the area when Max is getting his flying time in. 

My husband is excited to see it colored, so I guess that it's not a knight, is okay after all =)

The Husband and the Bastard Bird

Monday, November 1, 2021

 




My husband has been asking me to make art of him for a while now. 

He wants himself as a knight with a big sword or something along those lines.

And maybe, one day, I'll do that for him.

But mostly I'll draw him the way I see him.

Just like I did my last husband =)

And so I did this piece of him and his mean, mean Jenday conure, Max.

This bird hates me. It's the first pet I've ever had that has disliked me, and even worse - he bites me!

But my husband loves him. So I just stay out of the area when Max is getting his flying time in. 

My husband is excited to see it colored, so I guess that it's not a knight, is okay after all =)

 

During my break from digis, I thought of all the non-commercial projects I wanted to work on. I want to turn my favorite celebrities into the Holy Mother, I want to create some critters from my imagination (along the line of Chris Ryniak except my own and in my style), and I wanted to start creating self-portraits - to come to terms with my body dysmorphia and to experience myself from the outside looking in. My biggest inspiration for that last project is Frida Kahlo. Not only her art but also her words and the way she lived her life.

She is most famous for her self-portraits. Through these paintings she explored her feelings towards herself, her place in the world and her tumultuous relationship with fellow painter Diego Rivera. He was the great love of her life, but also a source of tremendous pain for her.


Like Frida, I’ve been the mother-wife. I’ve given too much of myself. And I’ve been overwhelmed by feelings of inadequacy.
 


I don't know if I'll ever try to actually make a self-portrait in her style, but she inspires me to at least make self-portraits in my style, whatever that may be.



I encourage everyone to make self-portraits. It's fun and comforting, in a way, to take a look at yourself through the lens of the outter, and the filter of your imagination. 



Self-portraits, inspired by Frida Kahlo

Monday, October 18, 2021

 

During my break from digis, I thought of all the non-commercial projects I wanted to work on. I want to turn my favorite celebrities into the Holy Mother, I want to create some critters from my imagination (along the line of Chris Ryniak except my own and in my style), and I wanted to start creating self-portraits - to come to terms with my body dysmorphia and to experience myself from the outside looking in. My biggest inspiration for that last project is Frida Kahlo. Not only her art but also her words and the way she lived her life.

She is most famous for her self-portraits. Through these paintings she explored her feelings towards herself, her place in the world and her tumultuous relationship with fellow painter Diego Rivera. He was the great love of her life, but also a source of tremendous pain for her.


Like Frida, I’ve been the mother-wife. I’ve given too much of myself. And I’ve been overwhelmed by feelings of inadequacy.
 


I don't know if I'll ever try to actually make a self-portrait in her style, but she inspires me to at least make self-portraits in my style, whatever that may be.



I encourage everyone to make self-portraits. It's fun and comforting, in a way, to take a look at yourself through the lens of the outter, and the filter of your imagination. 



 


After some chat with several friends who were sad to see me closing up all my shops and Patreon, I decided to re-open the Etsy shop.

I am working 60 hour weeks in a factory with no end in sight, so I'm not sure if I'll be able to update it, ever . It is a big adjustment to go from working from home to working outside of the home and to this extent. 

But if you are missing something, it's all back up and everything is marked down. 💗

https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheWhimsicalArtWitch



Photo by Ekrulila

The Whimsical Art Witch Etsy Shop Reopened

Thursday, September 30, 2021

 


After some chat with several friends who were sad to see me closing up all my shops and Patreon, I decided to re-open the Etsy shop.

I am working 60 hour weeks in a factory with no end in sight, so I'm not sure if I'll be able to update it, ever . It is a big adjustment to go from working from home to working outside of the home and to this extent. 

But if you are missing something, it's all back up and everything is marked down. 💗

https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheWhimsicalArtWitch



Photo by Ekrulila