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Not All Creative Blocks Are What They Seem There’s a specific kind of silence that most people don’t notice. It’s not dramatic or loud in its absence. It doesn’t scream or make a scene. It just sits there, heavy, quiet, familiar. It’s the silence that forms when something hurts, and instead of reacting, the body just...shuts down. That’s been me for most of my life. Not because I don’t care. Not because I don’t have anything to say. But because somewhere along the way, I lear

For a long time, I resisted prompts. Resisted is a nice way to say, they frustrated the crap out of me. Not because I was too cool for them. Not because I didn’t  need  them. But because every time I sat down with one, I felt like I was being told where to go, and maybe even who to be, when all I really wanted was to be asked, “Where are you already headed?” I found for me that prompts, even the most well-intentioned ones, can so easily become direction. And direction, when y

There’s a particular kind of ache that comes when something you made doesn’t match what you imagined. You know what I mean, that moment when you step back from your work, brush still in hand, and realize it’s... not right. Not what you saw in your mind. Not what you hoped it would be. The color is off. The composition feels flat. You layered too soon, or waited too long, or maybe you can’t even name  what  is wrong, you just feel it in your chest, a tightening. A pulling away

I used to think something was wrong with me. I’d sit at my desk, surrounded by the prettiest scraps, the softest brushes, the juiciest ink colors, and I’d just stare. Nothing would come. And when it did, it felt forced. Like I was trying to  be  an artist, instead of just  being  one. And god, that ache. That longing to create something true. That ache to see a piece of myself reflected back to me in the work. I wanted it so badly it hurt. But the more I wanted it, the more f

Mixed media is a fantastic way to express your creativity by combining different materials and techniques. 1. Surfaces to Work On First things first, you need a surface to create your masterpiece. Here are some popular options: Canvas: A classic choice for its durability and versatility. Available in various sizes, pre-stretched canvases are perfect for mixed media. For those just starting out, consider using canvas boards, which are more affordable and easier to store. Art

Hello, creative friends! Art is a powerful storytelling medium, allowing us to share our experiences, dreams, and emotions in a unique and personal way. Today, I’m excited to share some tips and techniques to help you find your voice and tell your own stories through art. 1. Start with What Inspires You Every story begins with a spark of inspiration. But what if that spark feels elusive? Instead of waiting for a lightning bolt of creativity, cultivate a habit of mindful obser

Quick update – I'm excited to share that my art journey has found a new home on Shopify! While my Etsy shop will still be up, I'll be actively showcasing and selling my creations on Shopify . No need to worry about any changes on your end – just click the links I share, and you'll be right where the magic happens! This switch comes with a basket of reasons, and if you've experienced Etsy's high fees, lackluster views, or the occasional shadow ban, you'll understand. I'm thril

I've finally finished, "Perseverance" – a stunning mixed media painting that beautifully encapsulates the essence of resilience and self-discovery. Even more fitting is that this painting started as something completely different. I loved the background when I first created it, but as each layer went on I become more and more frustrated with the competition of the painting. I set it aside for a few weeks and moved onto other paintings, but even with time it just wasn't workin

We've all been there – those days when everything you touch in the studio turns into a mess, and you start questioning if you're a fraud, a failure, and if your artistic career has hit a dead end. I recently had one of those days, and it felt like I was navigating through a storm of self-doubt and frustration. But guess what? It's okay. It's okay to feel like you're creating crap and to admit that not every day is a masterpiece waiting to be born. The key is not to beat yours

There's a certain magic in taking a spark of inspiration and turning it into a work of art. 🌟 As an artist, the journey from a mere idea to seeing it come alive on the canvas is nothing short of exhilarating! 🖌️ This painting began as a whisper of imagination, a flicker of color, and a dance of emotions in my mind. It was just a concept, a dream that begged to be expressed. With each brushstroke, I breathed life into my vision. Every color choice, every stroke, and every de

🍂 Embrace Autumn's Beauty with Our Fall-Themed Watercolor Ephemera Packs 🍂 As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, we welcome the enchanting season of fall. It's a time when nature dons its most colorful attire, painting landscapes in breathtaking hues of red, orange, and gold. I believe that art should reflect the beauty of the world around us, and that's why I'm thrilled to introduce my new Fall-Themed Watercolor Ephemera Packs. A Splash of Autumn in Every Pack The

Every artist knows the feeling: you get lost in your creative process, time slips away, and suddenly you're left with dried-on acrylic paint on your beloved paintbrushes. Or you come in to your studio in the morning only to realize you'd left your paintbrushes uncleaned and crusty from dried acrylic. But fear not! In this guide, I'll walk you through a tried-and-true method for salvaging your paintbrushes using a household hero – isopropyl alcohol. So, gather your brushes, a

As artists, we spend countless hours hunched over our easels, engrossed in our creative process. While our minds are busy bringing our imaginations to life, it's essential not to neglect our physical well-being. By incorporating good ergonomic practices into our studio setup, we can nurture our bodies and avoid unnecessary aches and pains. So, what exactly is ergonomics? Simply put, it's the science of designing and arranging our workspace in a way that promotes comfort, effi

As artists, we're constantly evolving, experimenting, and seeking ways to express our unique perspectives. Your artistic style is like a visual fingerprint that distinguishes your work from others, making it instantly recognizable. First and foremost, it's crucial to remember that developing a distinctive artistic style is a process that takes time, patience, and a healthy dose of self-discovery. Embrace the fact that your style will evolve over time as you gain new experienc

Are you a lover of all things vintage? Do you find joy in discovering hidden treasures from the past? If so, our Vintage Ephemera Packs are a must-have for your creative endeavors! Step into a world of nostalgia, where every piece tells a unique story and sparks inspiration like no other. What's Included? Each Vintage Ephemera Pack is carefully curated to bring you a delightful assortment of 100 original pieces. No reproductions here! You'll receive the real deal—genuine page

Cleaning an oil paint palette is an essential part of maintaining your painting materials. By using an alcohol spray and a flat blade scraper, you can effectively remove dried oil paint from your palette. Remember to work in a well-ventilated area, wear gloves, and take necessary safety precautions. Regular cleaning will not only extend the life of your palette but also ensure your colors stay true and vibrant during your creative process. These instructions are for glass pai

The world we live in can have a profound impact on our artistic journey, but fear not! With a positive mindset and a few strategies up your sleeve, you can navigate the challenges and keep your creative spark alive. Photo by Deeana Arts on Acknowledge the Impact It's essential to recognize that the world we inhabit plays a significant role in shaping our creative mindset. Global events, personal challenges, and societal changes can leave us feeling overwhelmed and drained. Gi

Are you looking for creative inspiration? Here are the top 10 places to get your creative juices flowing: Photo by Achim Bongard on Take a Nature Walk: Step outside and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. A leisurely stroll through a nearby park or nature reserve can breathe life into your creativity. Breathe in the fresh air, embrace the beauty around you, and let nature spark your imagination. Visit an Art Gallery: Delve into a world of artistic expression by visitin

Having a successful art business takes hard work, dedication, and careful consideration of the metrics that make up success. Measuring success in art businesses can take many forms depending on the individual business’s goals and objectives. Here are a few tips to help you measure success in your art business: Track your sales: This is an obvious one, but it’s important to keep an eye on your sales and how they compare to your overall business goals. Are you selling more at

As artists, we often find ourselves seeking direction and inspiration, longing to create authentic and meaningful work. Our inner compass is the guide that helps us navigate this vast artistic landscape, leading us toward our true artistic voice. So, let's explore some ways to discover and follow that creative North Star within us! Embrace Solitude: In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it's crucial to set aside dedicated time for yourself. Find a peaceful spot where you