Category Archives: Abstract Art

Watercolor Abstract Art Journal

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I love playing in my journals and experimenting with different techniques. I created this in my Strathmore 8″ x 5.5″ Watercolor Journal using Saran Wrap. I love the odd and interesting shapes the plastic wrap gives you. It’s always a surprise!

To create this effect you need to paint your journal with watercolor paints and make sure it’s fairly wet. While the paint is wet, lay the Saran Wrap on top, move it to where you like it and then let it completely dry. After it has dried, remove the plastic wrap to see what fun design you end up with. Then use your imagination to create an interesting work of art!

I added shading with a pencil, a little glitter, inspiring words and an uplifting quote by John F Wasik which reads:

“You can build any future you want if you let yourself grow, have faith in your dreams or visions and become open to new ideas.”

Hope this inspires you to create, thanks for stopping by!!!

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Simplest Things Journal

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Sometimes the greatest joy comes from the smallest and simplest of things. In filling my Simplest Things Journal which I started as part of Amy Maricle’s Challenge at Mindful Art Studios I’m finding so much joy and freedom as I create different designs with simple marks.

There are different steps in my process. For some of these I’ll start by creating small tiles, in varying sizes that I stash away until I’m ready to use them. Other pages will begin with a watercolor wash in the journal and then I go from. Really it comes down to doing what makes you happy at that moment and I honor that.

If you’re going through any kind of stress or you just need a break this is ideal and so beneficial for your heart and soul. You can check out online classes, YouTube videos or simply pick up a pen and get some paper and start playing. You’ll be amazed at how good it feels. The best part is you don’t need a big block of time, a few minutes a day is all you need!

Hope this inspires you to create some art!

Thanks for stopping by!!!

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“Color is the place where our brain and the universe meet.” ~Paul Klee

Thoughtful Thursday Words of Wisdom by Rumi

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When things get hectic and crazy it’s nice to read a quote that empowers and encourages you to continue. I painted this watercolor abstract on an 8×8 inch piece of 140lb watercolor paper. It has a beautiful pearl finish that glistens in the light and I thought it would be perfect to display this inspiring quote by Rumi:

“It’s your road, and yours alone, others may walk it with you, but no one can walk it for you.”

Really love this quote. I hope you’re having a great week!

Thanks for stopping by!!

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Watercolor Dreams Workshop

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I’m not sure if you read my Thoughtful Thursday post but it was about excuses and fear. I created this sketch and got stuck. I really wanted to paint her and bring her to life but I was convinced I was going to ruin the sketch that took me hours to complete.

Long story short, I finally silenced the negative nellies in my mind and painted her. It’s funny because after she was all done I was relieved and thrilled with how soft and dreamy she looks (see image below). There are a few things I’d change for the next one but overall I love her. What do you think?

This was part of an online workshop called Watercolor Dreams with the very talented Katrina Koltes who lives in Italy. I have to say, Katrina is an excellent teacher and amazing artist. I highly recommend you check out her site and everything she offers.

Hope this inspires you to create this weekend!

Thanks for stopping by!!

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“I put my heart and soul into my work, and have lost my mind in the process.” ~Vincent Van Gogh

Expressions of Love Update

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I’m working in online classes learning new techniques to improve my skills. When I need to take a break I love to paint my canvases and I was able to finish two more pieces for my Expressions of Love Collection. The one canvas above is bold and popping while the other one below is softer.

I like to photograph my canvases outdoors in the natural sunlight; unfortunately the weather hasn’t been cooperating lately. But I plan to have these listed in my Etsy Shop later this week.

Everyone wants to feel loved and appreciated, especially those who work hard making your life better. I created this Expressions of Love Collection to honor those special souls. Visit my Etsy Shop to see the full collection.

What do you think of these two new paintings?

Thanks for stopping by!!

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“Love is forgiving and love is for giving.” ~ Wayne Dyer

“Draw Yourself Calm” Artwork

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Sometimes we all need an unwind and the concept in Amy Maricle’s book “Draw Yourself Calm,” the practice of slowing down has been very sound advice. We live in a fast paced world and this is an excellent practice to help you destress. I try to create one a day. It doesn’t always work out to that but I do end up with several a week.

I like using 140lb watercolor paper because it can stand up to just about anything especially wet mediums like paint and inks. I’ll start by cutting a 9×12″ piece of paper into several sizes: 2 and 3 inch squares, ATC size, 3×4 and anything else I’m in the mood for. That way I always have them on hand and ready for some creative fun. When the mood strikes me, I’ll use my Sakura Pens to create some pretty cool designs.

I’m filling up a small basket of these little gems. Some I plan to use in my journals while others I may incorporate into larger pieces of art. Either way, I have a nice selection to choose from. Plus I have the satisfaction of creating and completing a work of art even though it may be small😊

I hope this helps you to stay inspired and create some art!

Thanks for stopping by!!

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(Note: by clicking on the links above it will take to the corresponding product in your region’s Amazon store. This Affiliate link means that I’ll get a small commission when you buy through my website. Thanking you in advance!!)

“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” ~Edgar Degas

Create Some Magic Art Journaling

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This was one of my very early art journal layouts. I’m not totally thrilled with it but there are things I like about it. I love the bright yellow background, it’s just very happy. The stamped watercolor flowers turned out pretty nice too. Looking at this I probably should’ve added leaves to the stems but it’s okay the way it is and I do like the green against the yellow. I also love the quote “create some magic.”

I remember when I created these pages I was trying out a new stencil and modeling paste. I like the stencil but not the modeling paste. The texture and consistency wasn’t the best and thankfully I’ve found a much better paste to work with. So even though this isn’t my favorite journal layout I did learn new things in the process.

Journaling doesn’t always go as planned and that’s okay. It’s a fun place to learn and try new techniques and to let your creativity run wild. My advice is always find the silver lining in the clouds that may visit you from time to time. Most importantly, enjoy the creation process and have fun😊

Hope this inspires you today, thanks for stopping by!!

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“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” ~Edgar Degas

Happy Easter Mixed Media Canvas

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This was a fun and colorful mixed media artwork I created a while ago on an 8×10″ canvas. I used a lot of different techniques in this, so there are a lot of interesting elements to catch your eye.

I started this canvas by collaging torn pages from a book along with paper doilies and any other paper I had on hand. Once that dried, I painted the background in bright, fun Easter colors using acrylic paints. Next, I used a stencil with modeling paste to create the yellow flower and stars. I also added stamped images of script, butterflies and an Easter bunny.

I cut out Easter eggs from five different pieces of coordinating cardstock and glued them to the canvas. The basket was made with crumpled tissue paper that I collaged on top of the eggs and later painted. I added shading, highlights and a bit of glitter for a little bling.

I had a couple of crocheted flowers in my stash so I thought they’d add some 3 dimensional texture and more interest. Last, I printed the “Happy Easter” from my computer and glued it to the canvas and it was done!

This is a beautiful Easter decoration that you could even make with kids and treasure for years to come😊

Hope you’re enjoying your Easter weekend💐🐇💐

Thanks for stopping by!!

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Art Journaling

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Art journaling is a fun and easy way to connect with your inner muse. It’s a great tool to help you to relax and unwind after a stressful day. The best part is there are no rules!

Dedicate as much or as little time as you like to journaling; and all you need to get started is a pen and notebook. Then create whatever your 💖 desires. If nothing comes to mind just begin by drawing squiggly lines and use your imagination to take you on a wonderful adventure.

I like to keep multiple journals going at the same time. Some have a theme while others are completely random. You can write your thoughts, sketch, doodle, collage, paint and do pretty much anything you can think of! It’s your personal space to express yourself with no rules or judgement. Just have fun and enjoy the process.

So what are you waiting for? Grab a notebook and pen and have some fun today!

Hope this inspires you today, thanks for stopping by!!

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“If you hear a voice within you say ‘you cannot paint,’ then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced.” ~Vincent Van Gogh

Expressions of Love Works in Progress

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I’ve been busy in online classes learning new skills and taking breaks in between working on my canvases for the Expressions of Love Collection. I love how the colorful backgrounds make the hearts pop!

In talking with others I find so many feel unappreciated and taken for granted. No one likes going unnoticed for all the work they do. Sometimes a simple “Thank You” can have a huge impact on their day. So make sure to say “Thank You” to those who brighten your days.

The four paintings shown here are a work in progress so stay tuned. They’ll be available in my Etsy Shop soon. What do you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Thanks for stopping by!!

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“Love is forgiving and love is for giving.” ~ Wayne Dyer