Watercolor Challenge: Sakura

Cherry trees in Japan are called sakura, a word that refers both to the trees and their blossoms. Sakura hold a uniquely important place in Japanese culture, celebrated for their breathtaking beauty and their symbolism of renewal, the arrival of spring, and the fleeting nature of life. Their short blooming period—often only about a week—has…

This week we’re heading out onto the water—sailboats, rowboats, tugboats, canoes, any type of boat.  Whether you choose a tiny fishing boat, a sailboat, or an ocean liner, let this be a moment to explore shape, light, and the feeling of drifting away for a bit. Can’t wait to see what you create! Watercolor challenge:  Boats…

This week, we’re diving into the wonderfully calming world of Karen Rice! Your challenge: Paint any of Karen Rice’s YouTube watercolor tutorials.  Her channel is packed with gorgeous, beginner‑friendly projects—misty landscapes, florals, cityscapes, seascapes… you name it. Take a scroll through her videos and pick the one that inspires you most: https://www.youtube.com/@KarenRiceArt When you share…

This week, your challenge is to paint the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.  It opened in 1937 after more than four years of construction on one of the windiest, foggiest, most challenging stretches of water on the West Coast of the US. At the time, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world,…

Many countries recognize Random Acts of Kindness Day on February 17.  This week’s challenge is all about creating a little burst of joy for someone else.  Your mission: Paint something—anything!—that you will give away to brighten someone’s day.  Kindness doesn’t have to be grand to be meaningful. Sometimes the smallest gesture becomes someone’s brightest moment.  Share your creation in…

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, this week’s challenge is all about LOVE‑inspired art. Some ideas:  Valentine’s Day cards, hearts, roses, Valentine’s candy, chocolate-covered strawberries… Watercolor challenge:  Valentine’s Day Here are the details: Share a Valentine’s Day painting  Sponsored by Marie Burke,  https://marieburke-art.com/ Prize for 1 random participant: 6-month subscription to Marie’s online course,…