Need inspiration? Learn from Van Gogh.

Jake Parker created Inktober in 2009 as a challenge to improve his inking skills and develop positive drawing habits. It has since grown into a worldwide endeavor with thousands of artists taking on the challenge every year. Yes, we will still do weekly challenges.  This is an extra month-long challenge.  🙂 Participate in Inktober.   …

With their unique designs, textures, and colors, barns offer a variety of artistic elements to explore, from rustic wood grains to shadows and light. Painting challenge:  Barns Include the hashtag #barns in your Watercolor – Beginners and Beyond Facebook group post. Deadline October 4, 2024 , 11:59 pm ET     Here are the details: Share…

My mother loved fancy teacups.  She grew up in the Depression, and they did not have anything fancy.  Anytime I see a pretty teacup, I think of her.  Painting a teacup gives you an opportunity to explore various techniques:  capturing reflections, painting patterns, and understanding form. Painting challenge:  Teacups Include the hashtag #teacups in your…

A birdbath is a vital resource for birds, especially in urban areas where natural water sources may be scarce.  The gentle splashes and the sight of birds bathing and drinking can evoke feelings of joy and tranquility. Painting challenge:  Birdbath Include the hashtag #birdbath in your Watercolor – Beginners and Beyond Facebook group post. Deadline…

Emojis allow people to express emotions and ideas visually in a way that text alone sometimes cannot convey. Its history traces back to the late 1990s.  The first set of emojis was created by Shigetaku Kurita in 1999 while he was working for NTT DoCoMo, a Japanese telecommunications company.    In 2010, emojis were standardized…

In many cultures, peonies symbolize prosperity, good fortune, honor, and love.  They can live for decades, with some plants reportedly thriving for over 100 years.   Peonies are visually stunning, with their large, lush blooms and vibrant colors. Painting challenge:  Peonies Include the hashtag #Peonies in your Watercolor – Beginners and Beyond Facebook group post. Deadline…