Thoughtful Thursday Georgia O’Keeffe

In the realm of American art, few names resonate with as much brilliance and innovation as Georgia O’Keeffe. Her iconic works, characterized by bold colors and an unparalleled sense of abstraction, have etched her name into the chronicles of art history.

Born on November 15, 1887, in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, O’Keeffe’s journey to artistic eminence was a gradual but determined one. After studying at the Art Institute of Chicago and the Art Students League in New York, she honed her craft, eventually forging a distinctive style that would set her apart in the male-dominated art world of the early 20th century.

O’Keeffe’s artwork is perhaps most renowned for her depictions of flowers, particularly her larger-than-life renderings of blossoms such as “Jimson Weed” and “Black Iris” (both shown below). These paintings, with their meticulous attention to detail and magnified perspectives, transcend mere representation, offering viewers a glimpse into O’Keeffe’s profound reverence for the beauty and mystery of nature.

Jimson Weed – Georgia O’Keeffe
Black Iris – Georgia O’Keeffe

Yet, O’Keeffe’s artistic repertoire extends far beyond floral motifs. Her evocative landscapes, inspired by the stark beauty of the American Southwest, capture the essence of the desert with a simplicity and depth that is truly captivating. From the majestic contours of the New Mexico terrain to the haunting allure of bleached bones against a vast sky, O’Keeffe’s landscapes invite us to contemplate the raw, elemental forces of the natural world.

In addition to her mastery of painting, O’Keeffe was also a pioneer of modernism, experimenting with abstraction in ways that challenged conventional notions of representation. Her series of abstract works, such as “Music—Pink and Blue No. 2” and “Abstraction Blue (both shown below),” showcase her innovative use of form and color to evoke emotional and psychological states, inviting viewers to explore realms beyond the confines of the tangible.

Music—Pink and Blue No. 2 – Georgia O’Keeffe
Abstraction Blue – Georgia O’Keeffe

Today, Georgia O’Keeffe’s legacy endures as a testament to the power of artistic vision and the enduring allure of the natural world. Her paintings continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the globe, reminding us of the boundless possibilities of creativity and the eternal beauty that surrounds us.

In the words of O’Keeffe herself, “I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way—things I had no words for.” Indeed, her art speaks volumes, transcending language and time to touch the hearts and minds of all who behold it.

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

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Raspberry Rhapsody Watercolor Abstract

I’m excited to unveil my latest creation: “Raspberry Rhapsody,” a captivating pink abstract painting that’s truly one-of-a-kind. Measuring 9×12 inches and crafted on 140lb watercolor paper, it promises to enchant with its delicate palette of soft pink tones.

This piece was brought to life through a blend of watercolor paints, colored pencils, and pen, each stroke infused with creativity and passion. To elevate its allure, I added a touch of magic with pearlescent watercolors, lending it a mesmerizing shimmer that captivates the eye.

“Raspberry Rhapsody” is available in my Etsy Shop (if interested) and would make the perfect gift for Mother’s Day✨

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

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“Art evokes the mystery without which the world would not exist.” ~René Magritte

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Watercolor Abstract Sneak Peek

Inspired my latest artistic adventures in creating mini works of art on watercolor tiles, I had an idea on how to put it all together. This is a sneak peek of a new 9×12 inch abstract painting I’m in the process of finishing up.

There are a lot of interesting elements in this piece that catch your eye like the shimmering metallic paints and delightful designs throughout. I’ll have it up in my Etsy Shop by Tuesday so stay tuned….

I hope this inspires you in some way today, thanks for stopping by!!

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“I dream my painting and then paint my dream.” ~Vincent Van Gogh

Watercolor Abstract

As artists, we all encounter moments when inspiration seems elusive. When I hit a creative roadblock, I often turn to nature for inspiration. However, recently I stumbled upon a book by Kate Rebecca Leach, titled “Creative Abstract Watercolor,” which gave me a refreshing approach to abstract art.

Leach’s unique style, characterized by playful geometric shapes, has sparked my imagination. Her book serves as a source of inspiration, leading me through the process of creating abstracts in a fresh new way. I’m experimenting with using the designs from my smaller tiles that I’ve been creating and seamlessly blending them together to form a larger cohesive piece.

My latest creation is this 9×12 inch watercolor abstract, painted in varying shades of pinks and purples. Each section of the piece has its own distinct flair, resulting in an engaging and intriguing piece of art.

I hope sharing my journey inspires you today. Thanks for stopping by!

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“Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely simple , that’s creativity.” ~Charles Mingus

Easter Bunny Inchie Tiles for Art Journaling

I really enjoy creating with these playful scribbles. With Easter Sunday tomorrow, I couldn’t resist making a few bunny tiles. Since I like working in 3’s these are my designs. I added splashes of watercolor paint to the scribbles and a little glitter to the tails for extra sparkle.

I’m going to add these to my stash for future use in my journaling. Hope this inspires you in some way today, thanks for stopping by!!

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“Live out of your imagination instead of your memory.” ~Les Brown

Abstract Art Journaling

Excited to share my latest creation with you. This is a new organic abstract using watercolors and Saran Wrap. The colors were a little too soft for me, so I added more of the same watercolor to each individual shape.

Creating these organic abstracts in my Strathmore 8×5.5″ Watercolor Journal has been an absolute blast! I really love the vibrant rainbow of colors and intricate design on this one! What are your thoughts?

Wishing this brings a little inspiration your way today. Thanks for dropping by!

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“Remember, happiness doesn’t depend upon who you are or what you have, it depends solely upon what you think.” ~Dale Carnegie

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Inchie Tiles for Art Journaling

I thought of a fun idea while on my morning walk for creating a new type of design with these scribbles and had to give it a whirl. I made the 3 tiles above with circular scribbles and a splash of watercolor for more interest. The scribbles are random and chaotic but I have to say creating these tiles was an absolute blast!

I’m adding them to my stash to use in my journal later. Hope this brings a little inspiration your way today. Thanks for stopping by!!

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“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Art Journaling

I’ve been working on my Etsy Shop so to keep my creativity flowing I work in my journals. These were two pages I made from tiles I created previously and had in my stash. Scribbles bring me joy. They’re chaotic yet simple. The gold accents add visual interest to the overall design.

Hope this inspires you in some way today, thanks for stopping by!!

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Abstract Art Journaling

As many of you know, I’ve been playing with Saran Wrap and watercolor paints creating some really cool organic abstract designs. Last Sunday, I spent a good part of my day working on this abstract in my Strathmore 8×5.5″ Watercolor Journal.

I love bright colors but the paints dried light so I used colored pencils that matched the paint underneath to make it pop. I also used a burnisher which softens your pencil lines and gives them a more fluid look. I found the burnisher also works on watercolor paints but the end result isn’t as bright. Overall I thought it turned out pretty cool 😎 What do you think?

Hope this inspires you, thanks for stopping by!!

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Deer Abstract Art Journaling

I created a new abstract in my Strathmore 8.5 x 5.5″ watercolor art journal. I used yellow and magenta watercolor paints along with a small piece of Saran Wrap to create this design. The fun part of this technique is you’re never sure what will appear and in this one I found a beautiful deer.

Deers are said to symbolize gentleness, grace, freedom and strength. So I added a few words to the design: kindness, gentleness, open your 💖 Although, I’m not sure why this deer appeared in my art, I was very happy it did!

Hope this inspires you in some way today. Thanks for stopping by!!

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