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❤️

Explore Flowing Waters Photo: New Shop on Etsy

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I’m so excited to finally share that my new Etsy shop, Flowing Waters Photo, is officially open! 🎉 After lots of time, planning, and behind-the-scenes work, I’ve finished transferring all of my photographs to this new space, and it feels wonderful to see it all come together.

To give you a little history, my love for photography began when I was about 10 years old. My father helped me craft a simple camera out of cardstock that actually worked, and that little creation sparked a fascination that’s stayed with me ever since. A few years later, he gifted me my first real camera as a birthday present—one I’ll always treasure. It opened my eyes to a whole new way of seeing the world and capturing the beauty around me.

Today, I use my Nikon Z50 to photograph everyday moments that catch my eye, transforming them into images that feel meaningful and timeless. This shop is a reflection of that journey and my love for noticing the small details that often go unnoticed.

All orders in the shop include FREE Shipping, so you can enjoy browsing without worrying about any extra costs. I can’t wait to continue sharing more art and photography with you.

Thanks for coming along with me on this creative journey. Wishing you a wonderful day!

Share the Happy ❤️

The Beauty of Brushstrokes in Painterly Art

Ever notice a painting where the brushstrokes seem to dance across the canvas—bold, visible, and full of energy? That’s the essence of the painterly style. Unlike hyper-detailed or photorealistic art, painterly works celebrate the process itself. Texture, movement, and spontaneity take center stage, allowing the artist’s hand to remain visible in every mark.

This approach is all about expressive freedom. Think of Van Gogh’s swirling skies or the soft dabs and dashes of the Impressionists. The strokes aren’t hidden or smoothed out—they’re part of the story. Whether you’re working in oils, acrylics, or even watercolor, painterly techniques invite a kind of joyful looseness. You don’t need to chase perfection. Instead, you lean into intuition, emotion, and the rhythm of your brush.

For artists, it’s incredibly freeing. For viewers, it’s captivating. There’s something deeply human about seeing the movement behind the image—the raw, unpolished energy that brings a piece to life.

Whether you’re an artist or simply someone who enjoys the beauty of art, the painterly style invites you to slow down and truly see—to savor the brushstrokes, the movement, and the emotion behind each mark. It’s a beautiful reminder that art doesn’t need to be perfect to be powerful—it just needs to be felt.

So the next time you come across a painting, take a moment to notice those textured, expressive strokes—they might just tell a story all their own.

Have you ever been drawn to a piece because of its bold, visible brushwork? I’d love to hear about a painterly artwork or style that really spoke to you—feel free to share in the comments!

Thanks so much for stopping by. Wishing you a bright, beautiful, and art-filled day!

Share the Happy💖