Returning to Pure Watercolor

Recently I’ve been working exclusively in 100% watercolor — no pens, no pencils, no mixed media — just paint, water, and experimentation. Limiting my tools in this way has been incredibly freeing. It removes distractions and brings my focus back to the natural movement of pigment, allowing watercolor to lead the conversation.

There’s a calm that comes from watching color bloom and settle. Working this simply reconnects me with why I love watercolor in the first place — the balance of intention and surrender.

Small Swatches, Big Discoveries

I started by creating lots of small watercolor swatches to test new color combinations, brushes, and techniques. These mini studies are where discovery happens. Each swatch becomes a low-pressure space to explore how pigments blend, separate, and create unexpected textures.

This playful experimentation feels both energizing and grounding. There’s no pressure for perfection — just curiosity. Some color pairings surprised me with their softness, while others produced bold, atmospheric effects that immediately sparked ideas for larger pieces.

From Testing to Finished Pieces

After choosing my favorite swatches, I moved into four 6×6 inch watercolor abstracts, carrying those discoveries forward. Even at this stage, the process stayed experimental. I adjusted water ratios, layered washes, and allowed organic edges to form naturally.

Each piece evolved from those early tests, maintaining a sense of freedom while gaining structure and intention. The result feels like a conversation between exploration and refinement — guided, but never forced.

Why This Process Matters

Working this way has been deeply refreshing for my creative mindset. Focusing on pure watercolor encourages patience, play, and emotional presence. It reminds me that experimentation isn’t separate from finished work — it is the foundation of it.

When I give myself permission to explore, my paintings feel more alive and expressive. That sense of freedom carries into the final pieces, creating art that reflects both process and feeling.

Thanks for stopping by, have a wonderful day!

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