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!

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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!

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Vibrant Watercolor Abstracts Inspired by Summer

Summer is such a wonderful time to slow down a little—soaking up the sunshine, enjoying warm breezes, and maybe even gathering around the grill for barbecues and s’mores (I’m a fan of the dark chocolate kind!).

That easygoing, feel-good energy has definitely made its way into the studio lately. I’ve been playing with new color combinations that feel just as vibrant and full of life as summer itself. These latest watercolor abstracts came together with a mix of sap green, yellow, and turquoise—a palette that reminds me of leafy greens, golden light, and those carefree outdoor moments we all look forward to.

There was no big plan when I started—just a curiosity to see how these colors would play together on the page. I let each layer unfold naturally, blending and overlapping, following the movement of the water and trusting the process.

To add a little extra magic, I brought in some gold metallic watercolor. I love how it shimmers in the light—just enough to give the piece a bit of glow without overpowering the softness of the paint.

Each piece came out a little different, but they all share that same layered energy—spontaneous, organic, and full of little surprises. It’s always fun to step back and notice the textures, tiny details, and unexpected shapes that show up along the way.

Lately, I’ve been reminded how energizing it is to try something new, especially with color. Just letting go and seeing where it takes you.

Do you have a favorite? I’m always curious what colors or details people connect with most.

Thanks for dropping in! Wishing you a weekend filled with color, joy, and a little time to play.

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Creating Unique Inspirational Quote Cards

I’ve always loved collecting inspiring and motivational quotes, so I decided to create my own personal deck of quote cards. I started by cutting out 30 cards from watercolor paper, each measuring 3.5×4.5 inches. Using colorful watercolor paints, I’ve made each card unique by painting organic, random designs. To add a polished touch, I rounded the corners with a corner punch.

So far, I’ve completed 6 out of the 30 cards. I’m not in a rush to finish—I’m taking my time with each one to slow down, be present, and fully enjoy the creative process. My latest creation features a girl with curly brown hair, along with my own quote: “Dream BIG and make it happen!”

As I continue working on this project, I find joy in the journey rather than focusing on the destination. It’s a gentle reminder to embrace the process, knowing that each step leads to something meaningful and beautiful.

I hope this inspires you to create some art today, thanks for stopping by!

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