JOURNAL — Creativity

What is an Art Style? An art style is a consistent and recognizable way of creating art. It's the unique characteristics that make your work identifiable. Having a distinct style is important because it not only helps people recognize and connect with your work, but it also strengthens your identity as an artist. Why Have an Art Style? A recognizable art style can set you apart, making your work more memorable and helping you build a stronger connection with your audience. It provides a sense of cohesion across your portfolio and allows others to know what to expect from your art....

'How to make an abstract art color study and my first color study of the year' Abstract art, with its freedom from the constraints of reality, is one of my favorite forms for self expression when making art. One of the most alluring aspects of creating abstract art is its exploration of color. It’s amazing how much sentiment can be expressed through color, without having to say a single word. Below is loosely my process for how I delve into this type of abstract color study. Exploring the subject and colors you’re trying to portray My first color study of the year -...

'Peach fuzz 'color of the year', how I use peach in my art + our favorite peachy color palettes' Each year, The Pantone Color Institute selects a shade that they feel will best reflect the color trends in the upcoming year. Pantone’s color of the year for 2024 is ‘peach fuzz’ and as a long time lover of the color peach, I’m all for it. Peach Fuzz, color of the year 2024 via Pantone Peach is a delicate orange-y pink color that exudes warmth, softness and playfulness. It’s muted tone makes it the perfect, warm neutral that can play nicely with so many...

'Choosing a word of the year, my own my word + a brief intro to the Rare Bird Co. Journal' Hello and happy new year! As we start a new year, I like the popular practice that’s gained momentum in recent years of choosing a ‘word of the year’. Your word of the year is a word you choose as a guide and reminder for what you’d like to focus on in the new year. Picking a word of the year is about taking stock of where you are now, reflecting back on how you felt last year, and then feeling out...

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, I thought this candy hearts painting would be a fun design to paint to get in the mood. I don’t know about you, but I also happen to love Valentine’s conversation hearts candies, they are so cute and nostalgic and the sayings are just fun. I was planning to paint this project in only gouache, but then went ahead and painted them in gouache, watercolor and acryla gouache. Let’s take a moment to explore these different mediums. ​​Looking for a video lesson of our process? A video class lesson with painting demo, commentary...