Art is Home For Me - Studio Update

Thanksgiving was different this year.  New state, new home, and a break in tradition.  It's exciting, don't get me wrong but the whole family wasn't here so it just wasn't the same.  Next year when November doesn't creep up on us maybe we can plan ahead.

Lately, painting has been a comfort for me.

Ink illustrations have become a part of my everyday life now.  Over on my instagram you can catch daily sketches.  

A good friend of mine asked for a tattoo illustration.  She's a Gemini and knew exactly what she wanted.  I presented three sketches to her and she loved this one.

If you would like a tattoo or portrait illustration email me at msdaniellerenee2@gmail.com.

I recently received good news that I made the Canvas Corps Creative Crew.  Be on the look out for new projects from me in 2016!

Have a great week!

Sharing with Art Journal Every Day/Paint Party Friday

How to Flatten a Watercolor Painting

Good Morning!

Today I wanted to share how to flatten a watercolor painting.  I just finished up this fall inspired portrait and before I package her up I took a few photos of my process.  It's pretty straight forward and easy to do!

I first saw artist Joe Cartwright do this technique on his YouTube video.  I just switched up my process and used things I had on hand.  

I took a short break from my art journal to complete this gouache and watercolor painting.  Each afternoon I set aside an hour or so to work on her.  Watercolor forces you to be patient and wait for each layer to dry.  Since I normally paint in acrylic I tried my best not to overwork the paint.  I have another one planned before all the leaves are gone.  

Tip: Make sure the watercolor paper and books are the same size of the painting so you don't create unwanted creases.

The original painting is no longer available but I will have prints just in time for the holidays.  If you would like notifications of when prints are in the shop please sign up for my newsletter!

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Do you know if any other tricks for flattening watercolor paper?  Let us know down in the comments.
Thanks for visiting! Sharing with Paint Party Friday, Art It Friday

Awakening: Mixed Media Art Journal Page

After Inktober I had to reevaluate my artwork.  For a whole week it's like I was in a creative block. I tried to paint and make a video but nothing was coming together.  

Last Sunday my mom and I went for a hike and I took as many photos as I could because I thought it might help me get out of my funk...and it did!

I guess with me working and sketching everyday I ran out of steam.  Fresh air and exercise brought in new inspiration and ideas.

I put together a list of Fall Inspired Creative Prompts for November.  If you need a boost it's here for you to download!

Feel free to share & Pin this image!

The first prompt I chose was Awakening.

I have to say that this page is not my normal style.  It's a bit looser and feels a bit more realistic then what I normally do.  But I love the direction my work is headed.

Supplies Used:

Paint: Americana, Craftsmart, Grumbacher acrylic paints

CARAN D'ACHE gauache paint

Ranger - Sticky Back Canvas

Michael's - Craft Felt

Bird Stamp - handmade

Blick - Handmade Papers
Wooden Box - Hobby Lobby

Reeves Watercolor crayons

Sharing with Thanks for stopping by!  

Sharing with Paint Party Friday, Art It Friday

I'm Published! - Free Issue Inside

Hey Friends!

I just wanted to let you know that I've been published in heART Journal Magazine.  heArt Journal Magazine is an online publication with lots of mixed media tips, tutorials, videos, and inspiration.  

To celebrate heART Journal Magazine has a given me a free issue bonus code to share with others.

Get your free issue of heART Journal Magazine today! 

Simply download the app on iTunes https://bit.ly/heARTMag or Google Play  http://bit.ly/Heartjournal

Then on your device follow these directions using subscriber code : voN2015 (case sensitive)

•             Install the App on your device

•             Launch the Magazine

•             On the Home Page, Tap on the Yellow subscribe button

•             Tap on the Current Subscribers button                         

•             Enter this: voN2015 (case sensitive)

or go to our cart for a pdf version choose the Nov 2015 Issue and use coupon code voN2015 in the check out process.

You will now be able to access your free issue.  Remember, the code is case sensitive. For help with the coupon code, email heartjournalmag@gmail.com   This code is good until Nov 15 2015!

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I also wanted to let you know that I have a free art journal printable available for the month of November when you sign up for my newsletter!  

Yes, I would like 30 Days of Fall Inspiration!