Category Archives: Abstract Art

Exploring Pure Watercolor Techniques for Stunning Art

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Returning to Pure Watercolor

Recently I’ve been working exclusively in 100% watercolor — no pens, no pencils, no mixed media — just paint, water, and experimentation. Limiting my tools in this way has been incredibly freeing. It removes distractions and brings my focus back to the natural movement of pigment, allowing watercolor to lead the conversation.

There’s a calm that comes from watching color bloom and settle. Working this simply reconnects me with why I love watercolor in the first place — the balance of intention and surrender.

Small Swatches, Big Discoveries

I started by creating lots of small watercolor swatches to test new color combinations, brushes, and techniques. These mini studies are where discovery happens. Each swatch becomes a low-pressure space to explore how pigments blend, separate, and create unexpected textures.

This playful experimentation feels both energizing and grounding. There’s no pressure for perfection — just curiosity. Some color pairings surprised me with their softness, while others produced bold, atmospheric effects that immediately sparked ideas for larger pieces.

From Testing to Finished Pieces

After choosing my favorite swatches, I moved into four 6×6 inch watercolor abstracts, carrying those discoveries forward. Even at this stage, the process stayed experimental. I adjusted water ratios, layered washes, and allowed organic edges to form naturally.

Each piece evolved from those early tests, maintaining a sense of freedom while gaining structure and intention. The result feels like a conversation between exploration and refinement — guided, but never forced.

Why This Process Matters

Working this way has been deeply refreshing for my creative mindset. Focusing on pure watercolor encourages patience, play, and emotional presence. It reminds me that experimentation isn’t separate from finished work — it is the foundation of it.

When I give myself permission to explore, my paintings feel more alive and expressive. That sense of freedom carries into the final pieces, creating art that reflects both process and feeling.

Thanks for stopping by, have a wonderful day!

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Uplifting Home Decor: When Color Smiles Abstract Art

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I’m excited to introduce my newest 8×8 abstract painting, “When Color Smiles,” a piece that celebrates the simple joy and energy that colorful abstract art can bring into a space.

From the very first layers, this painting felt bright and expressive. I worked intuitively, allowing vibrant colors to move freely across the canvas, blending softness with bold moments. The result is an original modern abstract painting that feels playful, uplifting, and full of life — like color itself is sharing a happy moment.

One of the things I love most about creating small abstract paintings is how much personality they can hold. Even at 8×8 inches, this piece carries movement and emotion. The layered colors create depth and visual interest, inviting you to pause and explore the details. Every angle reveals something a little different — a gentle transition, a pop of brightness, or a subtle rhythm in the brushwork.

Abstract art speaks in feeling rather than words, and “When Color Smiles” is all about warmth, optimism, and creative freedom. Whether displayed on a shelf, gallery wall, or cozy corner, this colorful abstract painting is meant to bring a lighthearted energy into its surroundings.

Creating this piece reminded me how powerful color can be — not just visually, but emotionally. Sometimes a painting doesn’t need a story or explanation. Sometimes it simply exists to lift the spirit.

Stop by my Etsy Shop if you’d like to see more details about this uplifting piece.

Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you have a wonderful day!

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Embracing Winter’s Chill: Art and Inspiration

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The past few weeks have brought some seriously cold weather, with back-to-back winter storms rolling through the eastern U.S. My heart went out to everyone up north dealing with freezing temperatures and power outages—and even the South felt the chill! Northern Florida even saw snow, which is pretty wild. Thankfully, things are starting to warm up a little now. 💛

One upside for me was spending more time indoors, which meant extra studio time and the chance to work on this new 24×24 abstract. I wish I could show you the “before” photos (technical hiccups!), but I’m really loving where this piece is right now. There are lots of layers in this one, and I enjoy seeing little hints of those earlier layers quietly peeking through.

I’m still deciding whether to add more lines or shapes. For now, I’m letting it hang out on the easel while I work on other things in the studio. There’s something nice about giving a painting a little space and seeing how it feels over time. And honestly? I kind of love it just the way it is… so this may be where I stop. We’ll see. 😊

I hope this little peek into my studio brightened your day. What have you been creating or enjoying lately? I always love hearing what you’re up to.

Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a moment here with me.

Share the Happy ❤️

Exploring Abstract Techniques in Art

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While I’m busy making little tweaks and fine-tuning my new Etsy Photography Shop, I’ve also been happily experimenting in the studio and diving into abstract work. Lately, it’s all about trying new techniques, playing with different supplies, and seeing what happens when I push myself outside my usual comfort zone.

These pieces were created on 140 lb handmade watercolor paper—and I’ll be honest, it’s not my favorite. There are areas where the paint just refuses to soak in, no matter how much I layer it on. The paper also has a yellow-green tinge, which works beautifully with some color palettes… and not so much with others. Part of the process, right?

That said, I am absolutely loving this color palette. It has a cool, calming vibe that really speaks to me. In the first image, though, I wasn’t thrilled with how the paintings were coming together. I tried adding a touch of shimmering metallic paint to see if that would elevate them—but they still didn’t quite win me over.

The second image features more organic shapes, and this is where things started to click. I love the way the shapes seem to glow, and that soft energy makes the piece feel really fun and alive to me.

By the time I reached the last image, I pretty much threw everything in my creative arsenal at it—short of the kitchen sink 😉 That one I truly love, especially the way the gold paint catches the light and adds that extra glow.

Art is always an experiment, and not every piece needs to be a favorite to teach you something new—and that’s part of what keeps it exciting.

I also want to send warm wishes to everyone affected by Winter Storm Fern. I hope you’re staying safe, warm, and well.

Thanks so much for being here and sharing this creative journey with me. Have a wonderful day!

Share the Happy❤️

Behind the Scenes of My New Etsy Photography Shop

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Lately, I’ve been spending a lot of time behind the scenes, quietly building and reshaping my creative space. I’m in the process of setting up my new Etsy Shop, Flowing Waters Photo, and it’s been both exciting and thoughtful work. This shop will be dedicated solely to my photography—real moments, captured through my own lens. With so much changing in the creative world, it felt important to create a clear home for my photographic work. As new images find their place in the photo shop, I’m moving them out of my original Flowing Waters Art Shop so each space can shine in its own way.

While there’s been plenty of organizing, uploading, and decision-making, I’ve also been sneaking in some much-needed studio time. Those moments—brush in hand, paint flowing—have been a refreshing pause from the technical side of things. I’ve been experimenting with watercolor abstract ideas, letting myself explore without a set outcome in mind. Some pieces surprise me, others challenge me, and a few remind me that not everything needs to be perfect to be meaningful.

I love sharing this part of the journey with you—the in-between moments, the experiments, the small steps that often go unseen. Creativity isn’t just about the finished piece; it’s about the process, the curiosity, and the joy of trying something new. I hope you’ll continue to peek behind the scenes with me as Flowing Waters grows and evolves.

Thanks so much for being here. Have a wonderful day!

Share the Happy❤️

The Joy of Playful Art: A Seasonal Reflection

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I’ll be honest—my art creations have slowed down a little lately. And honestly? I’m okay with that. One reason is that it’s the holidays, and I’ve been soaking up the season as much as possible: the little moments, the cozy pauses, the magic that always shows up this time of year. The second reason is a bit more behind-the-scenes—I’ve been working on plans to add a shop directly to this website. That means if Etsy isn’t your thing, you’ll soon be able to browse all of my artwork and shop right here, no extra accounts or steps required. I’m really excited about that next chapter.

As for this piece, it came from a place of play. No pressure, no rigid plan—just colors, shapes, and curiosity. It lives somewhere between abstract and impressionism, and I kind of like that it doesn’t fully commit to either. The florals feel loose and expressive, and the bold reds, warm yellows, and fresh greens felt absolutely perfect for the season. It was one of those sessions where experimenting was the whole point, and the joy was in seeing what would happen next.

Sometimes creativity—and really, life in general—doesn’t need to be about productivity or progress. Sometimes it’s simply about showing up, enjoying the moment, and letting yourself follow what feels good without overthinking it. This piece reminded me of that, and maybe it’s a gentle reminder for you too. 💛

What do you see when you look at it? Flowers in full bloom, festive energy, or just a burst of happy color? I’d love to know.

Wishing you a truly wonderful, magical day✨ Thanks so much for stopping by!

Share the Happy ❤️

Exploring Creative Freedom in Art Journaling

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Art journaling is such a fun way to play and get in some practice at the same time. It’s the perfect space to try out new ideas, techniques, tools, and colors without any pressure—just pure creativity.

When I make these abstract pieces, I love how the shapes and colors take on a life of their own. Simply using more or less water can create the coolest organic effects. Whether I’m brushing wet paint onto dry paper or working wet-on-wet, the results are always different, and honestly, always a little surprising!

This piece was created in my Strathmore Watercolor Journal using only three shades of blue. I added some line work and fun details with Posca pens and gold metallic markers. It turned into an interesting little design that really invites you to stop and look a bit closer.

Whatever your passion is, keep practicing and nurturing it. Doing what you love brings so much joy—and it’s amazing to see how your skills grow along the way.

Thanks so much for stopping by, and I hope you have a wonderful day!

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Brighten Up Your Home: Golden Dawn Art Sale & Limited Offer

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I’m thrilled to share “Golden Dawn”, a 5×7 abstract artwork bursting with golden hues, warmth, and energy. This piece captures the essence of a new day—a moment of light breaking through, full of promise and possibility.

Perfect for a desk, bookshelf, or gallery wall, Golden Dawn instantly brightens any space. A framing option is available, so your art arrives ready to display and elevate your home immediately.

Cyber Week is Coming!

From November 24–December 2, enjoy special savings on Golden Dawn and all the art in my Etsy Shop. It’s the perfect chance to gift unique art, treat yourself, or start a collection that reflects your style.

Blog readers get early access!
From November 21–23, enjoy 30% off all original art before the big sale with code BLOGLOVE30—plus receive a Free Gift with your purchase!

Cyber Week Deals at a Glance

  • 10% Off Canvas Wall Art & Stationery
  • 15% Off Photo Wall Art Prints
  • 20% Off Colorful Art Prints
  • 25% Off Art Tote Bags, Abstract Wall Art, Watercolor Art, Whimsical Art & Christmas Decor
  • 30% Off Gifts Under $75
  • 35% Off Heart Art & Gifts

Don’t miss your chance to gift art, add inspiration to your home, and bring a little extra color and joy this holiday season!

Thank you for supporting my art—I hope your week is full of creativity and light!

Share the Happy❤️

Photo by Max Fischer on Pexels.com

New Art Releases: Moments of Renewal and Echoes of Joy

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These past two weeks have been a whirlwind, but I survived! 🎉

Long story short—my computer crashed, and I was nearly in tears thinking I’d lost all of my work and photos. 😢 Thankfully, everything was recovered, and I now have a brand-new computer—yay! The downside? It came with all-new software, including a different version of Windows and my photo-editing program, so there’s definitely a learning curve. But I’ll get there😅

While my computer was down, I still managed to get some work done from my phone (which was not easy on that tiny screen!). I did, however, manage to list two new pieces in my Etsy shop:

🎨 Moments of Renewal – A 5×5-inch abstract painting that glows with depth and movement. Layers of luminous color and expressive brushwork create a radiant composition that feels alive—evoking both serenity and inspiration.

🎨 Echoes of Joy – A vibrant 4×12-inch modern abstract that bursts with rhythm and harmony. Energetic strokes and shifting layers of color capture a sense of celebration and motion, like joyful echoes reverberating through light and space.

✨ Both of these one-of-a-kind abstracts make a bold statement as wall art or as a shelf accent in your home, office, or creative space. Their vivid hues and dynamic energy invite reflection, spark conversation, and add a touch of contemporary elegance wherever they’re displayed.

Stop by my Flowing Waters Art Shop on Etsy to take a closer look!

Thanks so much for stopping by—wishing you a truly wonderful rest of your week! 😊

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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! 😊

Share the Happy💖