Here's a painting I'm currently working on... I think it may be the largest one yet at 48x30. It's been on my easel for a month now, while I try and figure out where to go next.

The color combo feels right, but I need to block a bit out so it isn't so busy. Trouble is, I love so many sections of the painting (see the close up photos), I can't decide what to get rid of! Ha!

I'm sure it will sit for a bit longer, and then in a passing moment without thought I'll finish it.... seems to be the way of things re: my process.

Here are a few close up photos:

100 Days Project: 1-50

A couple of months ago I decided to take on an Instagram challenge that I had spied on a few artist profiles: #100DayChallenge.  There are many different variations of this challenge, as it can be tailored to accommodate any activity to complete for 100 consecutive days.

I decided upon completing an art journal entry every day, as it was always something I struggled with doing consistently.  Over the years, I'd pick one up, dabble for a couple of days and lose interest shortly thereafter.  No matter how much I loved the idea of art journaling, I just couldn't seem to be able to commit to it.

I'll be honest.  When I began this challenge, I didn't think I'd last a single 7 day stretch.  However, I couple of days into it I decided that I wanted to set myself up for success, and so I included a total of 3 art journals into my rotation: a Large Dylusions journal, a small Dylusions journal, and a sketchbook.

You see, I know myself.  I needed to have some flexibility, especially on days when I wouldn't always have the time, or even feel like pulling my supplies to create.  This way, I could sketch something quickly with my Stabilo pencil and still feel like I accomplished the daily task.

As I type this, I'm on day 63 of the challenge and I haven't missed a day yet.  I feel like I've grown so much, in such a short period of time.  I've never created this consistently before, so I notice the change in my creative practice: I'm using my supplies, finishing up those online classes, and practicing using ideas and techniques I've learned from those classes!  Finally!

I'm loving the daily practice, and how it's given me confidence to try new things in my art journey.  I have a feeling once I've completed the 100 days... I may start another challenge to keep my momentum going.

Please visit my instagram account for all of daily posting!
Cheers,
Steph

Messy Calico: Fast, Intuitive Painting

One of the things I love to do is fast, intuitive painting.  These are SUPER QUICK sketches in ink and watercolor.  They only take a few minutes, and often end up being some of my favorite pieces since I didn't over think things.

I love doing them to loosen up in my sketchbook, and warm up with my supplies.  They are also something that I dive into just before I go to bed on days when I didn't have the time to be creative.

Taking 5 min to loosen up helps keep my daily practice fresh and satisfies that urge to make something.  (If I don't, the ideas running around my head can keep me up at night! hehe)

Give it a try, just put pen to paper and see what you create! You may surprise yourself :-)

Happy Friday!
Steph

Funky Girls Watercolor Trio

Here are my latest watercolor girls that I framed (4x6) and gave as Christmas gifts this year.  I just love these funky characters and their bright colors!

I swear, I could doodle these all day... I just need to practice a bit to come up with more eyeball variety!  However... the side look does appeal to me, it gives them attitude ;-)

Prints will be listed in my shop later this week for those interested

Cheers,
Steph