Trash to Treasure Art Journaling

This creation is part of the Scrappy8Challenge on Instagram! I fell behind because I’ve got so many projects going on in the studio, but this artwork is for July’s prompt: “Trash to Treasure.” My original plan was to use chocolate wrappers to create something fun, but that would have meant eating a lot of chocolate! Not that I’m complaining, but I am trying to be good 😇

Sometimes things simply don’t go as planned. I had painted a watercolor abstract that just didn’t turn out the way I wanted. But with the July prompt in mind, I thought, why not salvage it and turn it into a treasure?

I had a lot of fun punching out butterflies—each one unique—and adding them to my journal. After finishing, I thought maybe leaving the background white would have been better—sometimes less really is more! But you know what? I still like how it turned out. And now, I’m officially all caught up! 🎉

I hope this piece inspires you to create something fun this weekend! Thanks so much for stopping by!!

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“Open your heart and mind like the wings of a butterfly. See then how high you can fly.” ~Zeenat Aman

Shop Update: Colorful Watercolor Abstract Painting ‘Whispers of Sunset’

Sunsets are such a beautiful sight, and they were my inspiration for this painting. The warm glow of pinks, yellows, and oranges creates a feeling of joy and serenity, capturing the essence of those magical moments when the day gives way to night.

With this in mind, I’m excited to share that “Whispers of Sunset,” a colorful original Modern Watercolor Abstract Painting, is now available in my Etsy Shop! Crafted with love on 5×7 inch, 140 lb cold press watercolor paper using professional-grade paints, this piece radiates life and captivates everyone who sees it.

Whispers of Sunset” brings a touch of contemporary elegance to any space. Whether displayed in your living room, personal sanctuary, or workspace, it adds vibrant colors and creative energy. Plus, its versatile design lets you hang it vertically or horizontally, perfectly suited to your style and space.

✨ Just a reminder—today is the final day of the Labor Day Sale in my Etsy Shop! Enjoy 25% off select Original Art and Ornaments. ✨

Thank you for your continued support!

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Shop Update: Soothing Watercolor Abstract Painting ‘Dreamscape’

Colors have a wonderful way of bringing calm to our lives, and that’s exactly what I had in mind when creating my latest piece, “Dreamscape.” I’m so excited to share this soothing and serene modern watercolor abstract with you! 🌊💜

Featuring a blend of calming blues, greens, yellows, and purples, “Dreamscape” is all about harmony and tranquility. Painted with care on 7.9×7.9 inch, 140 lb hot press watercolor paper using professional-grade paints, this piece brings a sense of peace to any space. It’s not just a painting—it’s a gentle invitation to relax and unwind. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of serenity to your home or office, “Dreamscape” is a beautiful, high-quality piece that’s perfect for creating a calming atmosphere.

Head over to my Etsy Shop to see this piece and discover more original artwork. Your next favorite piece is waiting✨

Thank you for your support!

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Shop Update: Colorful Watercolor Abstract Painting ‘Kaleidoscope’

I love the rainbow of colors and this painting does not disappoint! When creating it, I was careful to choose colors that blended and played nicely together. It’s always a fun challenge because sometimes, a tube of paint that looks blue might not turn green when mixed with yellow, as you’d expect!

With that in mind, I’m thrilled to announce that “Kaleidoscope,” a vibrant, original Modern Watercolor Abstract Painting, is now available in my Etsy Shop! Crafted with love on 5×7 inch, 140 lb cold press watercolor paper using professional-grade paints, this piece truly radiates with life. It’s a burst of color that captivates everyone who sees it.

Kaleidoscope” is perfect for adding a touch of contemporary elegance to any space. Whether you hang it in your living room, personal sanctuary, or workspace, it transforms the area into a vibrant haven of color and creativity. Plus, it can be hung vertically or horizontally—whichever suits your style best!

Thank you for your support!

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Makes my Heart Sing Art Journaling

Ever wondered what goes on inside an artist’s mind? Well, this journal layout is a little peek into mine! I’m all about bright, fun, happy colors, whimsical touches, and the magic of everyday life. Roses and flowers? Absolutely love them. Music and art? They all make my heart sing.

This creation is part of the Scrappy8Challenge on Instagram. I fell a bit behind because of the many projects I’ve got going on in the studio, but this artwork is for June’s prompt: “Makes my heart sing.” So many ideas came to mind, but the real challenge was capturing the feeling in a way that truly resonates.

After some thought, I chose ‘Art’ because, no matter what’s happening in the world, creating always brings me joy, happiness, and peace. This artwork was made in my favorite 4.5×5″ handmade watercolor journal. I used watercolor paints and markers, a white Posca pen for highlights, a sketch pencil for shading, and of course, a bit of glitter for that extra sparkly magic✨

I’ve got one more layout to do for July, and then I’ll be all caught up. I’m planning to work on that this week, juggling it with my other projects. I hope this piece inspires you in some way!

Thank you so much for stopping by! I’d love to hear what makes your heart sing. Have a fantastic weekend!

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Photo by Unchalee Srirugsar on Pexels.com

The Sea Art Journaling

I’m excited to share my latest artwork with you for the Scrappy8Challenge on Instagram! This month’s theme is “Salt,” and after tossing around a few ideas, the sea 🌊 kept calling to me—it’s salty in the best way! To add a bit of interest and fun, I even sprinkled some coarse sea salt onto the background.

This ocean-themed piece found its home in my cherished 4.5×5″ handmade watercolor journal—a thoughtful gift from my sister on a past birthday. I love working in this journal; the size is just right, and the colorful thread binding adds such a special touch that I made sure to paint around it. To make it even more interesting, I drew a boat and some sea life, then stamped the quote, “My heart is at home by the Sea,” and secured it with some washi tape. I even found a delightful mermaid washi tape by Jane Davenport in my stash, which I thought was the perfect finishing touch. I’m pretty pleased with how it turned out—it’s cute and captures that salty sea vibe!

I have to admit, I’m a little behind on this challenge, so I’ll be catching up on the other two designs over the next week or so. My studio projects have been keeping me busy, but taking this creative detour was a refreshing break.

Thanks so much for stopping by! I hope you have a fantastic weekend ahead. 🌟

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Thoughtful Thursday Artist Trading Cards (ATCs): Miniature Masterpieces

Are you familiar with Artist Trading Cards, or ATCs? These tiny works of art, measuring just 2.5 by 3.5 inches, are a delightful way for artists of all levels to share their creativity and connect with others.

While the idea of painting in such detail on this small size seems daunting to me, I deeply appreciate the artistry of those who do. I prefer to collect these miniature masterpieces and admire the incredible talent behind them.

Recently, I found a double matte made exclusively for displaying ATCs and couldn’t wait to showcase my collection. The three paintings in the left column and the three on the right were created by one of my favorite artists, Gretchen Del Rio from California. Her unique spiritual style of painting is incredibly calming. Sadly, it seems she is no longer creating these beautiful works of art, so I feel truly blessed to have this stunning collection from her.

In the middle column, you’ll find toucans at the top and a shorebird at the bottom, painted by Anna Lee in Maryland. Her attention to detail is remarkable, especially the reflection of the bird wading in the water on the bottom.

The middle painting of geraniums was created by Elaine Hayes in Tennessee. This piece holds special meaning for me as my late sister, Helga, loved geraniums, and Elaine’s painting brings back wonderful memories of her. I also have other larger paintings from Elaine, including a blue crab that’s framed and hanging next to my studio table, putting a smile on my face every time I sit down to create.

ATCs are a wonderful way to connect with the artistic community and appreciate the diverse styles and techniques out there. If you haven’t tried creating or collecting them yet, I highly recommend giving it a go. It’s a rewarding and inspiring experience!

Thanks for stopping by!!

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Shop Update: Vibrant Watercolor Abstract Painting ‘Splash’

As most of you know, I love color. The more, the merrier! I remember when my dad first introduced me to watercolors. I eagerly added every color in the palette to the paper, only to create a big puddle of mud. I was so upset that my vision of a beautiful, colorful masterpiece ended up as a yucky mess 😂 That’s when my dad started teaching me about color mixing.

Given that early experience, it’s no wonder I paint the way I do. Today, I’m thrilled to introduce “Splash,” the latest addition to my Etsy Shop. This abstract painting, crafted with professional paints on 7.9×7.9 inch, 140 lb hot press watercolor paper, will enchant all who see it.

Enhance your space and soothe your mind with “Splash,” and let its timeless beauty inspire your soul. Don’t miss out—make it yours today and let the enchantment begin!

I’d love to hear about your own experiences with color or art! Share your stories in the comments below and let’s celebrate our creative journeys together✨

Thank you for your support!

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Creating Inspiring Abstract Paintings with Organic Elements | Art Process

I had so much fun creating these abstract paintings, and after working out some of the snafus, I finally put one together! I wanted it to have an organic feel, so I used a piece of a tree branch wrapped with yarn. I added wire, a few beads, and a bit of glitter for some pizzazz, and this is where it ended up.

I still have three more to go, but I’m happy with the overall vibe. I’m still contemplating adding an inspiring word—what do you think?

Stay tuned, more to come…

I hope this inspires you, have a grand day! 🌸🎨

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Floral Fantasies: Capturing the Essence of Flowers in Art

I see flowers as Mother Nature’s masterpieces. Their petals, whether soft and strong or luminous and fragile, each possess a unique beauty that ignites my creativity. These two new paintings I’ve created invite you to envision flowers through a lens of feeling rather than detail.

As I wrap up these paintings, I’m also piecing everything together. A few unexpected challenges prompted some design changes, but they’ve only enriched my artistic journey.

Stay tuned to see how it all comes together…

I hope this inspires you, have a wonderful weekend! 🌸🎨

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