Expressions of Love: A Little Painting with a Big Heart

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There’s something especially meaningful about sending a piece of original art out into the world. Yesterday, this little 5×5 “Expressions of Love” painting found its new home, and I couldn’t be happier knowing it will brighten someone’s space for years to come.

Sometimes it’s the smallest paintings that carry the biggest emotions.

The Expressions of Love collection began with a simple idea: love doesn’t have to be loud to make a lasting impact. A kind word, a thoughtful gesture, a handwritten note, or a small piece of art can remind us that we are loved and connected.

This painting features a vibrant blue heart surrounded by layers of joyful color—greens, blues, whites, and touches of shimmering gold. To me, the heart represents peace, hope, and kindness, while the colorful background reflects the many moments and people that fill our lives with love. No two hearts in this collection are exactly alike, just as every person’s story is unique.

One of my favorite things about creating these little paintings is imagining where they’ll end up. Perhaps this one will sit on a bookshelf, brighten a desk, or become part of a gallery wall. Wherever it lives, I hope it serves as a daily reminder to pause, smile, and appreciate the love that surrounds us.

As artists, we spend hours creating something from our hearts, never knowing whose heart it will eventually touch. When a painting finds its forever home, it feels like the final chapter of its story—and the beginning of a brand-new one.

To the wonderful collector who welcomed this little blue heart into your home, thank you. I hope it brings you joy every time you see it.

And to everyone who has supported my Expressions of Love collection over the years, thank you for believing in handmade art and the stories it carries. Your encouragement means more than words can express.

Wishing you a day filled with kindness, creativity, and a little extra love.

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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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