Tag Archives: Art Inspiration

Softening the Layers: Letting an Abstract Painting Breathe

Featured

Posted on by
Reply
  • This is where it started;
  • adding more, layers and design elements;
  • soft and dreamy

When I last shared this painting, it was beginning to take on a warm, colorful personality. I had started with pink and orange, letting the colors evolve and seeing where the painting wanted to go.

Well, it turns out it had a little more evolving to do.

As I spent more time looking at it, I realized I wasn’t completely happy with some of the bolder areas. They were competing for attention a little more than I wanted them to, and the overall feeling I was after was softer and more dreamy. So instead of adding more strong colors as I sometimes tend to do, I decided to add more layers of light.

Working over some of the stronger areas with softer shades helped quiet them down while still allowing the layers underneath to show through. I love how mixed media paintings can work this way. You don’t necessarily have to erase something you don’t love—you can transform it, soften it, or let it become just a small part of what comes next.

And I think that’s what this painting needed.

The pinks, peaches, oranges, and lavender are still there, along with the textures, marks, little clusters of dots, and touches of gold. But now they feel more integrated. The lighter layers create a hazier quality that is much closer to what I had imagined.

It’s still not finished, though. I’m getting closer, but there are a few areas I’m still looking at. Sometimes I know immediately when a painting is done, and other times it takes a little patience. I might make another change, or I might simply leave it on my easel for a while and see what I notice the next time I walk past it.

That’s one of my favorite parts of creating abstract art. The painting can change direction several times before it finally tells me, I’m done.

For now, I’m enjoying this softer, dreamier version. We’ll see where it takes me next.

Thank you so much for stopping by and following along with this painting’s journey. I hope you have a creative and wonderful day!

Share the Happy 💖

Embrace Daily Art Practice with Just 10 Minutes

Featured

Posted on by
Reply

Have you ever thought, “I’d create more if I just had more time”?

It’s easy to imagine that making art requires a quiet afternoon, a perfectly organized studio, and hours of uninterrupted creativity. But it doesn’t have to. A daily art practice can be as simple as picking up a pencil, opening a sketchbook, or spending a few minutes playing with color. The goal isn’t to create something amazing every day. It’s simply to make a little room for creativity.

Start Small

If the idea of creating every day feels overwhelming, start with ten minutes. Draw a few lines, experiment with color, fill a page with doodles, or make a few quick sketches. You don’t need a plan, and you don’t need to finish anything. Those few minutes are enough to get your creative mind moving.

Make It Easy to Begin

One of the best ways to create more often is to make starting easier. Keep a sketchbook and a few favorite supplies somewhere you can easily reach them. You don’t need your entire art collection sitting out. Having just a few things ready can remove the little bit of resistance that makes you think, “I’ll do it later.” And sometimes, later never comes.

Give Yourself Permission to Play

Your daily practice doesn’t have to produce “good” art. Some days you may create something you love. Other days, you may make a mess. Both are part of the process. Experiment with a color combination you’ve never tried, make random marks, or paint without knowing where you’re going. There is freedom in knowing that nothing has to become a finished piece.

Don’t Wait for Inspiration

Inspiration doesn’t always show up before you begin. Sometimes, it appears because you began. Start with whatever catches your attention—a color, a photograph, a flower, an interesting shape, or something you noticed during your day. You might be surprised by where a few simple marks can lead.

Find What Works for You

A daily art practice doesn’t have to mean creating seven days a week. If every day feels like too much, start with a few days. If ten minutes is all you have, make those ten minutes count. You can also stay connected to creativity without actually making art. Take a photograph, look through an art book, notice interesting colors, or simply pay attention to the world around you.

Keep It Joyful

The biggest secret to building a lasting art practice is to make it something you enjoy—not another item on your to-do list. You don’t need a complicated routine, a perfectly organized studio, or hours of free time. You just need a little time, something to create with, and permission to play.

So grab your sketchbook, pick up a brush, or make a mark on a blank page. Start small, stay curious, and most importantly, have fun. Creativity doesn’t have to take over your day. Sometimes, a few minutes is all it takes to keep that creative spark alive.

Thank you so much for spending a little time here with me today. I hope you find a few quiet moments to create, play, and let your imagination wander. Wishing you a beautiful and creative day!

Share the Happy 💖

Do’s and Don’ts of Creating a Gallery Wall

Featured

Posted on by
Reply

A gallery wall is one of the easiest ways to add personality to your home. Whether you’re displaying original artwork, family photos, or treasured keepsakes, a thoughtfully arranged gallery wall can turn a blank space into a beautiful focal point. The key is creating a collection that feels balanced, inviting, and uniquely yours.

Do Plan Your Layout First

Before hanging anything, take a little time to experiment with the arrangement. Lay your frames on the floor or tape paper templates to the wall to see how everything works together.

Start with your largest or favorite piece as the anchor of the display, then build the rest of the collection around it. Keeping the spacing between pieces fairly consistent—about 2 to 3 inches—helps create a polished, cohesive look.

Don’t Hang Artwork Too High

One of the most common decorating mistakes is placing artwork too high on the wall. As a general guideline, the center of your gallery should be close to eye level. If you’re hanging it above a sofa, console table, or bed, leave about 6 to 8 inches of space between the furniture and the bottom of the artwork.

It’s also helpful to keep the gallery wall proportional to the furniture below it. A display that’s roughly two-thirds the width of the furniture usually feels balanced and comfortable.

Do Mix Sizes and Add Interest

A gallery wall doesn’t have to be perfectly matched. Mixing large and small pieces, vertical and horizontal artwork, and different frame styles creates visual interest and gives the display a collected feel.

You can also add dimension by including mirrors, small shelves, decorative objects, or other meaningful items. Even with a variety of pieces, choosing a simple color palette helps tie everything together.

Don’t Overcrowd the Wall

Every piece deserves a little room to shine. Leaving enough space between artwork keeps the wall from feeling cluttered and allows each piece to be appreciated.

Don’t worry about making everything perfectly symmetrical, either. Slightly asymmetrical arrangements often feel more natural and tell a more personal story.

Most importantly, choose artwork that speaks to you. A gallery wall filled with meaningful pieces will always feel more special than one built around generic décor.

Do Consider Lighting and Wall Color

Lighting can completely change the way artwork is experienced. A well-placed lamp, picture light, or track lighting can bring attention to your favorite pieces and add warmth to the room.

Wall color also plays an important role. Light-colored walls create a bright, airy backdrop, while darker walls can make artwork stand out with dramatic contrast. Choose the look that best reflects the mood you want to create.

Don’t Be Afraid to Refresh It

A gallery wall isn’t something that has to stay the same forever. As your style evolves or your collection grows, rearrange pieces, add new artwork, or rotate favorites into the display.

Your gallery wall should grow with you, telling the story of your experiences, creativity, and the things that bring you joy.

A thoughtfully curated gallery wall isn’t about following strict design rules—it’s about creating a space that feels welcoming, meaningful, and uniquely yours.

Thank you for reading today’s Thoughtful Thursday. I hope these simple tips inspire you to create a gallery wall you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Wishing you a colorful, creative day!

Share the Happy.💖

Honorable Mention in Somerset Studio Magazine for My Accordion Art Journal

Featured

Posted on by
Reply

I have some exciting news to share with you. The other day while browsing in Barnes & Noble, I came across the latest issue of Stampington’s Somerset Studio Magazine. Late last year I submitted my accordion art journal for their “With Flying Color” Challenge, so imagine my surprise when I discovered that my piece received an honorable mention!

While I didn’t have an article published this time, photos of my art journal appear on pages 142–143, which was such a wonderful moment to see.

Sometimes creativity has a beautiful way of lifting our spirits, and seeing my journal in print thanks to Stampington Somerset Studio was such a bright moment this week—a wonderful reminder of the joy of creating.

This week has been an emotional one for me after losing my sweet Chanel just a few days ago. Seeing my colorful journal layout unexpectedly in the magazine felt like a little ray of light right when I needed it most. The happy colors and playful design instantly made me think of her and brought a smile to my heart.

Thank you so much for stopping by, and I hope you have a wonderfully creative weekend ahead! 🎨✨

Share the Happy💖

Whispers of Light: A Painting Comes to Life

Posted on by
Reply

Some paintings take their time with me. They don’t rush, and they don’t reveal everything at once. Whispers of Light, my newest 18×24 inch abstract, is one of those pieces.

It started months ago with soft washes of color and textured movement layered onto canvas. I blogged about it back in May—how I paused at midnight, resisting the urge to keep going, and waited for the morning light to guide me. That moment of stillness helped me see the work with fresh eyes. I didn’t know it at the time, but that pause was part of the painting’s story too.

As I added final touches in the weeks that followed, I kept returning to that early light—the quiet, glowing energy that filtered through the window that morning. The colors in this piece—turquoise, rose, golden peach, and warm earth tones—carry a softness, a hush, almost like a breath between thoughts. There’s boldness in the movement, yes, but also a sense of calm rising through the layers.

That’s where the title came from. Whispers of Light felt right—it speaks to the way this piece came together: slowly, gently, and with trust in the quiet moments.

Now that it’s finished, I feel both proud and at peace with it. It’s a reminder to listen to intuition, to light, to softness. To know when to pause, and when to move forward.

Thank you for following along on this painting’s journey—it means so much to have you here.

💫 Have you ever worked on something that unfolded slowly and surprised you in the end? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

Wishing you a weekend full of quiet joy and radiant little whispers of your own.

Share the Happy 💖

5 Ways Art Can Revitalize Your Home

Posted on by
Reply

We’ve all had that one corner or room that feels…meh. Maybe it’s too plain, too dark, or just lacks that spark. But before you start a full-on renovation, consider this: art has the power to breathe life, personality, and soul into a space—no hammer required!

Here are five simple ways art can completely transform even the dullest room:

1. It Sets the Mood
A vibrant abstract piece can energize a space, while soft watercolors bring a sense of calm. Want cozy? Moody florals or warm-toned landscapes can shift the atmosphere instantly. Art doesn’t just sit there—it speaks to the mood you want to create.

2. It Adds a Story
Blank walls feel empty because they have nothing to say. A single piece of meaningful art—especially if it’s handmade or thoughtfully chosen—can turn a “blah” space into a conversation starter. It becomes part of your story.

3. It Sparks Joy (Seriously)
Think of the last time you saw a piece of art that made you smile. That emotional lift? That’s no small thing. Surrounding yourself with uplifting, inspiring visuals can truly shift your mindset every time you walk into a room.

4. It Personalizes Your Space
Art is the quickest way to make a space yours. Whether it’s your own creation, a cherished print, or something you found on a special trip, your art choices reflect your unique tastes and experiences.

5. It Encourages Creativity Everywhere
When your surroundings are visually inspiring, your brain gets the message: creativity lives here. Whether you’re journaling, cooking, or brainstorming your next big idea, art helps unlock that flow state.

Art doesn’t need to be expensive or oversized to be powerful—it just needs to be chosen with heart. 💛

Do you have a piece of art that completely changed how a space felt for you? I’d love to hear how you’ve used art to turn “meh” into magic!

I hope this post sparked some fresh ideas for your space—thanks so much for stopping by!

Share the Happy💖

Trusting the Process in Abstract Art Creation

Posted on by
Reply

A Painting in Progress

Working on these abstract paintings is always an adventure—each layer tells part of the story, even the ones that get buried beneath others. This 18×24 inch piece has been evolving for quite some time now. I’ve been adding layers slowly, letting each one guide the next, and I’m finally starting to fall in love with it.

The Midnight Pause

There’s always a point in the process where I feel the urge to keep going—adding more color, more movement, more energy. Last night was one of those moments. I was tempted to keep layering well past midnight, but something told me to pause. So I listened. I stepped away and promised myself I’d take another look in the morning with fresh eyes. I’m so glad I did.

A Fresh Look in the Morning

This morning, I brought the painting into a sunnier room and propped it up by the window. The natural light made the colors come alive in such a lovely way. I sat there with my delicious chocolate shake, just soaking it all in—and that’s when it hit me: it didn’t need much more. Maybe just a few soft lines or subtle shapes, but nothing major. For now, it feels close to complete. And that feels really good.

Trusting the Process

It’s moments like these that remind me why I love making art—learning to trust the quiet pauses just as much as the bold brushstrokes.

Let’s Chat!

Have you ever taken a break from something creative, then come back to it with fresh eyes? I’d love to hear how that’s worked for you—feel free to share in the comments!

Thanks so much for stopping by. Wishing you a beautiful and relaxing weekend!

Share the Happy 💖

A Walk in Monet’s Garden: Observing the World Through Art

Posted on by
Reply

“All I did was to look at what the universe showed me, to let my brush bear witness to it.”
~ Claude Monet

When I came across this quote by Monet, it stopped me in my tracks. Such a simple thought, yet so deeply powerful. It reminds me that art isn’t always about striving or planning—it’s about noticing. Truly seeing. Allowing beauty to move through you and out onto the page, canvas, or journal.

Monet painted the world as he experienced it: shimmering light on water, the softness of morning mist, the dance of color in a garden alive with blooms. His work invites us not only to see, but to feel.

That’s the heart of my painting, “A Walk in Monet’s Garden.” It’s a gentle meditation on color and tranquility—a moment where I allowed myself to pause, observe, and let my brush bear witness, too. It’s not a replica of Monet’s style, but a reflection of the awe I feel when I slow down and look at the world with wonder.

Maybe today, you’ll take a quiet moment to do the same. Let beauty find you. Let it speak through whatever medium brings you peace.

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

Share the Happy 💖

Discover the Magic of Spontaneity in Art

Posted on by
Reply

Do you ever start a project with one idea in mind, only to watch it take on a completely different direction? That’s exactly what happened in my latest art journal layout!

I began with a loose, abstract background and added some handwritten thoughts. Layers of acrylic inks came next, creating rich textures and pops of color. It felt fun and free, so I kept building—adding more layers with acrylic paint and pens to deepen the design.

Then, something magical happened. As I worked, shapes started to appear. Before I knew it, a big pink heart and delicate flowers seemed to bloom right out of the page! 🌸💕

It wasn’t planned, but sometimes that’s the beauty of art. Creativity has a way of leading you where it wants to go. This spontaneous burst of love-filled energy reminded me how important it is to stay open to the unexpected. When we let go of rigid expectations, beautiful surprises emerge.

What can I say? I’m definitely in love mode today! 💖

I hope this journal spread inspires you to embrace happy accidents in your creative practice, too. After all, art is as much about the journey as the final result—and there’s so much joy to be found when we allow the process to flow.

I’d love to hear how your creative projects have taken unexpected turns! Share your experiences or artwork inspired by this post in the comments, or tag me on Instagram @flowingwatersart. Let’s inspire each other and celebrate the beauty of creativity!

Wishing you a weekend filled with love, creativity, and a touch of magic!

Share the Happy! 💖

The Power of Thoughts: A Reflection on Gandhi’s Quote

Posted on by
Reply

While flipping through some old notes, I came across this beautiful quote by Gandhi, and it instantly felt like the perfect match for my “Rustic Charm” abstract:

“Your beliefs become your thoughts.
Your thoughts become your words.
Your words become your actions.
Your actions become your habits.
Your habits become your values.
Your values become your destiny.”
~ Gandhi

This quote serves as a great reflection, highlighting how even the simplest thoughts can shape our lives in profound ways. 🎨💫 It reminds us to be mindful of our thoughts and the impact they have on our actions and values. Creating art is my way of reflecting on these ideas, expressing them through color and form, and finding inspiration in life’s little moments.

I hope these words of wisdom inspire you today, thanks for stopping by!🌟✨

Share the Happy💖