Author Archives: Maria - FlowingWatersArt

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About Maria - FlowingWatersArt

I'm a self-taught mixed media artist and have been creating art and a positive atmosphere in my life for as long as I can remember. I live in sunny South Florida, which serves as my inspiration for my use of bright fun colors with a whimsical flair. My goal is to inspire and empower you to find your inner happiness through creativity, as I have in my life. This website includes different tips and techniques that will hopefully inspire your inner muse to create. Welcome and join me on a wonderful journey in creating art!

The Art of Pumpkin Carving: From Tradition to Creativity

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Photo by Steven Van Elk on Pexels.com

Every fall, as the air turns crisp and pumpkins start appearing on porches and in grocery stores, I’m reminded of how creativity weaves itself into the simplest of traditions. Pumpkin carving may have started with superstition and folklore, but over the centuries it’s become a joyful, artistic expression that celebrates the beauty of the season.

A Quick Nod to the Past

If you read my post a few years ago, you might remember that the very first jack-o’-lanterns weren’t pumpkins at all—they were carved from turnips or other root vegetables and lit from within to ward off wandering spirits. This old Irish and Celtic custom eventually made its way to America, where pumpkins—larger, softer, and much easier to carve—became the perfect substitute.

As the tradition took root here, it began to change. What started as a way to frighten away spirits gradually turned into something far more joyful—a creative celebration that brings people together and lets imagination shine, one glowing pumpkin at a time.

Pumpkin Carving as Creative Expression

Today, pumpkin carving has evolved far beyond the triangle-eyed faces of childhood. Artists around the world sculpt pumpkins into intricate works of art—layering, etching, and shading the surface like a living sculpture. Some carve realistic portraits or elaborate scenes that glow from within, while others paint, collage, or even stack pumpkins to create whimsical displays.

There’s a sense of wonder in watching these temporary creations come to life. Maybe that’s what makes them so special—like art itself, they remind us that creativity doesn’t have to last forever to make an impression.

Finding Inspiration in the Glow

Even if you’re not into elaborate carving, there are so many ways to celebrate this cozy tradition. Try painting your pumpkin in soft watercolor-like hues, adding gold leaf, or creating abstract patterns inspired by your favorite fall colors. Let your imagination lead the way—there’s no “right” way to decorate a pumpkin, only your way.

A Little Reflection

Each glowing jack-o’-lantern, whether spooky or serene, carries a spark of creativity that connects us across time. From ancient folklore to modern artistry, it’s a tradition that continues to evolve, reminding us how art—and a little light—can turn something ordinary into something magical.

Thanks for stopping by! Wishing you a cozy, creative, and delightfully spooky Halloween filled with glowing pumpkins, flickering lights, and inspired moments. ✨🎃

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Embrace Playfulness This Halloween Season

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Photo by Daisy Anderson on Pexels.com

Once a year, the world feels just a little more playful. Pumpkins line doorsteps. Costumes take over closets. Adults and kids alike find themselves caught up in the excitement of something that’s all too rare in our day-to-day lives: pure, creative fun.

Halloween isn’t just about candy or costumes—it’s a yearly invitation to loosen up, use our imaginations, and remember how good it feels to play.

🧡 Letting Go of Being So Serious

Modern life often comes with a constant pressure to be polished, productive, and in control. But Halloween gives us permission to hit pause on all of that. It’s a reminder that not everything has to be so serious.

When you put on a costume—even a simple one—you’re saying, “Today, I choose joy.” You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be present. Whether you’re handing out candy, carving a pumpkin, or walking through a neighborhood full of decorations, you’re participating in something simple and powerful: fun for fun’s sake.

🌟 Reawakening the Imagination

When’s the last time you played pretend?

Halloween is powered by imagination. It brings us back to a mindset we knew well as kids—the freedom to invent, explore, and dream without rules. Whether you’re creating a costume, decorating your space, or telling a spooky (but not too spooky) story, you’re flexing your creative muscles in the best possible way.

And imagination isn’t just for October 31st. It’s something we use in everyday life—solving problems, telling stories, thinking ahead. Halloween just reminds us how joyful and refreshing it can be when we let that creativity run free.

🍬 Enjoying the Moment

There’s something beautiful about the simplicity of Halloween joy.

Kids running from house to house. Laughter echoing down the street. The crunch of leaves, the glow of jack-o’-lanterns, the sense that—just for tonight—it’s okay to just be in the moment.

Halloween doesn’t require expensive plans or perfect conditions. It invites us to slow down and enjoy what’s right in front of us: a playful moment, a spark of imagination, a shared smile.

✨ Let the Spirit of Play Stay With You

So this Halloween, whether you’re dressing up, decorating the house, or simply soaking in the season, give yourself the gift of play. Let your imagination take the lead. Let go of the need to do everything “right.”

Because when we allow ourselves to be a little more playful, we feel more alive, more connected, and often—more ourselves.

What’s one way you’re bringing a little more play and imagination into your life this season?
Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re celebrating!

Here’s to imagination, laughter, and letting go!

Thanks so much for stopping by!!

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Vibrant 11×14 Fine Art Prints That Wow

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  • Peacock King
  • Fancy as a Peacock
  • Pink Flamingo

I’m excited to share a new addition to my fine art print collection: large-format 11×14 inch prints of three of my most loved pieces — Peacock King, Fancy as a Peacock, and The Pink Flamingo.

If you’ve admired these vibrant works in smaller sizes, you’re going to fall in love all over again. The new 11×14 format brings even more life, color, and detail to each piece — perfect for making a statement in your home, office, or gallery wall.

✨ Why the 11×14 Format?

Art deserves room to shine. This larger print size allows for:

  • Richer detail: You’ll see every feather, texture, and expressive nuance more clearly.
  • Bolder impact: These prints stand out — no frame required (though they look stunning framed).
  • More versatility: At 11×14, these pieces are large enough to stand alone or complement a gallery wall.

🦚 Meet the Collection

🟣 Peacock King
Majestic, proud, and unapologetically regal. This piece captures the powerful elegance of the male peacock in all his iridescent glory. The 11×14 print gives his sweeping tail and intense gaze room to truly shine.

💙 Fancy as a Peacock
A celebration of flair, fashion, and the bold beauty of being extra. The larger format highlights the shimmering hues and whimsical charm that make this piece a favorite among collectors and daydreamers.

💗 Pink Flamingo
Playful, poised, and perfectly pink — this portrait balances grace with personality. The 11×14 edition brings out the softness in the plumage and the quiet strength in her stance, creating a striking visual centerpiece.

🖼️ A Statement for Any Space

Whether you’re decorating a new space or refreshing a favorite nook, these 11×14 prints bring a vibrant pop of color and personality. They also make thoughtful gifts for art lovers, animal enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates bold design and a bit of whimsy.

Available now in my Etsy Shop. Let your walls strut their stuff!

Thanks for stopping by and stay tuned for more larger prints!

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Finding Calm Through Art: Embrace Everyday Creativity

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Some days, life feels like a blur — a string of errands, appointments, and to-do lists. But then there are the moments when art steps in, quietly, and reminds me to breathe, notice, and feel. Those little pauses — a splash of color, a texture under my fingers, the scent of paint in my studio — turn ordinary days into something extraordinary.

For me, creating art isn’t just about finishing a painting or completing a project. It’s a way of experiencing life more fully. A simple morning walk can become a study in light and shadow, a cup of tea in the morning turns into a meditation on color and form, and even the smallest sketch brings a sense of calm and presence. Art has a way of making time stretch and ordinary moments sparkle.

Sometimes, it’s the small, intentional acts — setting up my workspace, choosing a palette, or even doodling in my journal — that transform the rhythm of my day. These practices remind me to slow down, notice beauty, and connect with the world around me in a way that feels meaningful.

Art doesn’t just enhance my day; it enhances how I see and live in the world. It teaches me patience, joy in the process, and appreciation for fleeting moments. Even when life is hectic, those little interactions with color, texture, and creativity make everything feel richer.

So today, on this Thoughtful Thursday, I invite you to notice the small ways creativity touches your life. Maybe it’s a favorite song, a photograph, a sketch, or even just noticing the sunlight dancing across the floor. Those moments are your own little masterpieces — and they have the power to make each day more vibrant, calm, and alive.

✨ How does art or creativity enhance your everyday experiences? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Thanks for spending a little time here with me!

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Drift and Bloom: Modern Art for Your Home

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  • Drift and Bloom – Original
  • Drift and Bloom – Giclee Print

I love to lose myself in my art while I paint. Each brushstroke I add puts a little piece of myself into the artwork — a thought, a feeling, or simply a moment of quiet joy. Over time, those moments come together to form something new and alive. That’s exactly how Drift and Bloom came to be.

This 8×8 inch original painting on wood is a celebration of color, flow, and modern elegance. Layers of turquoise blue, playful pink, soft white, warm brown, and shimmering touches of gold drift together in a soothing, uplifting dance. The natural wood panel adds depth and texture, enhancing the luminous energy that makes this piece feel like it’s gently moving.

Because this painting has such a peaceful yet vibrant spirit, I’m excited to share that Drift and Bloom is now also available as a fine art Giclée print. Each print is professionally produced on premium 310g archival paper, ensuring the colors stay true and radiant for years to come.

Whether you’re drawn to the tactile richness of the original wood painting, or prefer the versatility of a print that brings its joyful calm into any room, Drift and Bloom adds a bright, modern touch to your space.

✨ Both the 8×8 original and Giclée prints are now available in my Flowing Waters Art Shop on Etsy — perfect for collectors, color lovers, or anyone who loves art that radiates harmony and light.

And for those who enjoy my photography as well — I’m in the process of adding new 11×14 inch print sizes to all my photo listings, so you can enjoy larger, statement-worthy versions of your favorite images. Stay tuned for updates as new sizes become available!

Thank you for taking a moment to share in this burst of color and creativity with me — wishing you a bright and joyful day! 😊

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The Joy of KC and the Sunshine Band: A Disco Legacy

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Richard Finch, Robert Johnson, Harry Wayne Casey (KC), Jerome Smith

When it comes to feel-good music that gets people dancing, few groups capture that infectious energy quite like KC and the Sunshine Band. Formed in the early 1970s in sunny Miami, Florida, the band was led by **Harry Wayne Casey—“KC” himself—**who blended funk, R&B, and pop into a sound that defined the disco era. Their songs weren’t just catchy; they became anthems of joy and celebration that still fill dance floors today.

With five No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including “Get Down Tonight,” “That’s the Way (I Like It),” “(Shake, Shake, Shake) Shake Your Booty,” “I’m Your Boogie Man,”and “Please Don’t Go,” KC and the Sunshine Band dominated the charts through the mid- to late-1970s. They went on to sell over 100 million records worldwide and earned three Grammy Awards, including one for Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Group and another for Producer of the Year. Their upbeat, horn-driven sound helped define the Miami Sound and left a lasting imprint on pop and dance music for decades to come.

From the rhythm of “Get Down Tonight,” to the iconic “That’s the Way (I Like It),” and “Shake Your Booty,” KC and the Sunshine Band made it nearly impossible to sit still. Their music was all about movement—about letting go, smiling wide, and feeling the groove. Even today, those opening notes can transport you straight back to a time of sequins, disco balls, and carefree nights.

Growing up, I had a fun little connection to this dazzling world of disco. We ended up living just a few doors down from the band’s manager and his family. They had a daughter around my age, and tucked away in one of her closets were some of the actual stage costumes worn by the band! I still remember how we used to open that closet door in awe—the outfits were incredible. Made of thick polyester, adorned with sparkling rhinestones, and surprisingly heavy, they shimmered beautifully—even in the faintest light. We’d giggle and marvel at the thought of someone dancing under bright stage lights in those sparkling suits!

It’s funny how music and memories intertwine. Even now, when I hear “Boogie Shoes” or “I’m Your Boogie Man,” I can’t help but smile, remembering that glittering closet and the magic it held. KC and the Sunshine Band taught us something timeless—that life feels a little brighter when we take a moment to dance, laugh, and celebrate the joy of the moment.

So today, on this Thoughtful Thursday, maybe turn up a little disco and let yourself “shake, shake, shake” your way into a happier mood. Because as KC would say, that’s the way (uh-huh, uh-huh) I like it! 🎶

Hope you enjoyed this groovy stroll through music history. Thanks for stopping by!

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Notes of Grace – A Symphony of Color and Joy

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  • Notes of Grace Original
  • Notes of Grace Giclee

Every painting I create holds a little melody of emotion, and “Notes of Grace” is one that sings with color, movement, and harmony. This modern abstract began as an original 5×7 inch painting on wood, where I explored the rhythm between shape and hue—each brushstroke dancing in its own vibrant tempo.

Notes of Grace bursts with turquoise blue, playful pink, cheerful yellow, and deep brown, layered together in joyful balance. The lively shapes and candy-colored palette make it feel almost musical, as if the colors themselves are composing a song of gratitude and light.

Because I loved the way this piece radiates happiness, I decided to make it available as Giclée fine art prints—so more people can experience its bright, uplifting energy in their homes.

✨ About the Prints
Each print is professionally created on premium 310g Giclée paper using archival, fade-resistant pigment inks that capture every vivid hue and subtle texture of the original artwork.

Available in multiple sizes—5×7, 8×10, 11×14, 16×20, and 18×24 inches—each print includes a 0.5-inch white border for easy framing.

Whether you’re adding a cheerful accent to your home or searching for the perfect gift for someone who loves color and creativity, Notes of Grace brings a touch of modern charm and a reminder to find beauty in life’s little moments.

If your walls are ready for a pop of joyful color, I’d love for you to explore Notes of Grace in my Flowing Waters Art Shop on Etsy. May it bring brightness, grace, and a smile to your day!

Thanks so much for stopping by—I can’t wait to see where Notes of Grace finds its home!

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Thoughtful Thursday: 13 Family-Friendly Halloween Movies for Cozy Nights

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Halloween isn’t just about costumes, candy, and pumpkin carving—it’s also the perfect time to gather the family, snuggle under a blanket, and enjoy a spooky-but-fun movie night. Some films lean into the laughs, some bring on a little shiver, and others fill us with pure nostalgia. Together, they remind us that Halloween magic is best when shared.

Here are 13 family-friendly Halloween movies to make your October nights extra special:

  1. Haunted Mansion – A ghostly adventure starring Eddie Murphy with humor and heart that brings Disney’s classic ride to life.
  2. Ghostbusters (Original 1 & 2) – Timeless fun with just the right balance of spooky and silly.
  3. Ghostbusters: Answer the Call – A refreshing spin on the ghost-busting classic, full of energy and laughs.
  4. Beetlejuice – Quirky, offbeat, and unforgettable, this film mixes the bizarre with the hilarious.
  5. Hocus Pocus – A Halloween tradition for many, with its campy charm and unforgettable Sanderson sisters.
  6. Harry Potter Series – With its magic, mystery, and seasonal vibes, these films are perfect for a Halloween marathon.
  7. Goosebumps – A playful nod to R.L. Stine’s spooky stories that keeps the thrills family-friendly.
  8. A House with a Clock in Its Walls – A whimsical tale filled with magic, mystery, and just enough chills.
  9. Halloweentown – A Disney Channel classic brimming with charm and nostalgia.
  10. Twitches – Magical twins discovering their powers—it’s lighthearted and fun for younger viewers.
  11. The Ghost and Mr. Chicken – A comedy gem starring Don Knotts, filled with goofy haunted-house antics.
  12. Abbott & Costello Hold That Ghost – Classic comedy that proves spooky stories can be downright hilarious.
  13. Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein – A perfect blend of old-school monsters and slapstick laughs.

Family movie nights aren’t just about the screen—they’re about connection. Whether you’re introducing kids to old favorites or revisiting your own childhood classics, these films create moments of laughter, wonder, and a few delightful goosebumps.

As you light a candle, grab a bowl of popcorn, and settle in with loved ones, remember that Halloween is less about the fright and more about the fun of being together.

So this season, let these stories remind you that even in the spookiest of times, joy and togetherness shine brightest.

Thanks for visiting today! Here’s to making new memories, rewatching old favorites, and celebrating the joy of Halloween together.

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✨ P.S. I’ve got something special planned just for my readers—a little holiday surprise is on its way soon. Stay tuned!

Introducing “Hope in Bloom”: Original Painting & New Giclée Prints

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  • Original 4×4 Canvas
  • Giclee Print

Every painting has a story, and I’m so excited to share one of my latest creations with you—“Hope in Bloom.” This joyful little abstract began as a 4×4 inch original painting on canvas, bursting with color and positive energy.

With a playful mix of turquoise blues, sunny yellows, soft lavenders, and lively pinks, this mini artwork feels like a celebration of movement and renewal. Though it’s small in size, it brings a big dose of happiness to any space—perfect as a shelf sitter, desk accent, or a unique gift.

Because I fell in love with the colors and the uplifting feeling this piece carries, I decided to make it available as Giclée fine art prints for those who want to bring a larger version of Hope in Bloom into their home.

✨ About the Prints
Each print is professionally produced on premium 310g Giclée paper with archival pigment inks for rich, lasting color. They capture the same vibrancy and brushstroke detail of the original, making them a beautiful addition to any wall.

Prints are available in multiple square sizes:

  • 8×8 inches
  • 10×10 inches
  • 12×12 inches
  • 16×16 inches

Each comes with a 0.5-inch white border, making it simple to frame and display.

Whether you choose the petite original or one of the larger prints, Hope in Bloom is all about adding a spark of light, joy, and color to your day.

If your walls are calling out for something fresh and uplifting, I’d love for you to explore Hope in Bloom in my Flowing Waters Art Shop on Etsy. You’ll find both the original painting and the Giclée prints waiting to brighten your space.

Thanks so much for stopping by—I can’t wait to see where Hope in Bloom finds its forever home!

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The Power of Ritual: Small Routines That Give Big Mental & Creative Returns

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There’s something magical about rituals. Not the elaborate, once-a-year kind, but the small, everyday ones that quietly shape our lives. These are the moments that help us pause, recalibrate, and feel grounded—whether we’re in the studio, caring for family, or simply trying to keep up with a busy week.

Rituals don’t have to be complicated. Lighting a candle before painting, brewing a favorite cup of tea, or taking a short walk before diving into work can shift your mindset. These small acts send a signal: this is my time to be present.

I especially love to burn an autumn-scented Yankee Candle in my home and turn on fall decor with golden-orange lights. The soft glow and seasonal scents create a cozy atmosphere that feels like a gentle invitation to slow down and savor the moment.

In creativity, rituals can be powerful anchors. Maybe it’s opening a well-loved journal, choosing a single color to start with, or listening to a playlist that sparks inspiration. These little touchpoints create a rhythm that makes it easier to slip into flow and stay connected to the joy of making.

And beyond creativity, these routines bring mental returns, too. They give structure, create comfort, and remind us that even in a busy world, we can carve out space for ourselves.

So this week, consider adding or refreshing a ritual in your day. It doesn’t need to be grand—just something that feels like a gentle promise to yourself. You might be surprised how much it brightens your mindset and fuels your creativity.

✨ What rituals help you feel grounded or creative? I’d love to hear about them in the comments!

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🍁“Autumn whispers softly, inviting us to slow down, breathe deeply, and savor the warmth of golden light.”🍂