Trying Out Watercolor Markers

I recently discovered the existence of watercolor markers, and decided to give them a try. I ordered a set and have been enjoying their quick and mess free nature. I am still learning to not add too many details, and to leave more white space. This is a hard habit of mine to break haha

 

Have any of you tried watercolor markers? Have any tips? Comment below!

How I Started Creating Art Again

As I mentioned in my first post, I had taken quite a long break from creating art in the past few years. Yes, I practiced occasionally, but not in a very determined and serious way. A major cause of of this was that I was too distracted by negativity. Although the image of a tortured artist might seem romantic, I do not believe that it is conducive to creating art. It certainly did not help me.

A few months back, I realized how empty my life felt without creating art. I needed to start again, but kept procrastinating. One day I decided that I had enough, and ordered a book called “How to Draw What You See” by Rudy De Reyna. I have been working through many of the exercises, and it has helped me relearn the basics again

I also recently ordered another book, entitled “The Laws Guide to Nature Drawing and Journaling” by John Muir Laws because I had found many of his tutorials on YouTube useful. Although I personally enjoy expressive and impressionist artwork the most, I do also want to be able to draw creatures and plants in a somewhat realistic way. His instruction is helping me achieve that. I also think that creating a nature journal would be a lot of fun.

Watching art channels on YouTube has really helped me want to keep learning more. I am grateful that I live in a time where I can easily access this information through a computer at home. There are so many tutorials ranging from basic to complex, that I will not allow myself to use the excuse of not knowing what my subject should be to prevent creating art everyday. Even doodles are useful in becoming a better artist.

I finished my first acrylic painting in months today, a simple painting of a green apple. It is the first time I have used just a palette knife for most of the painting, along with one large and small brush. I am pretty satisfied with how it has turned out.

I believe watching tutorials, reading books, and getting inspired by other artists has really helped motivate me to create more. Hopefully some of these tips will also motivate you! Do you have any tips on staying motivated? If so, comment below!

An Introduction – And My Art Goals for 2020

Hello, everyone! My name is Amanda Currier. I am a freelancer and artist who enjoys portraying life in an imaginative and expressive way. Several years ago, I had many creative outlets. I enjoyed drawing, making jewelry, playing music, and writing poetry. I sold a few art and jewelry pieces, and was generally hopeful about my future. But for several reasons, including stress and anxiety, I slowly stopped creating. I felt discouraged, and at one point did not have any hobbies at all. It felt like such an empty time in my life.

But in the past few months, I have started feeling like my old self again, wanting to create and express myself through art. That is why I have started this blog. I want to improve my drawing techniques, and to learn more about art. As I learn better techniques and useful art tips, I would like to share these with you on this blog!

And because some of my other hobbies and interests include collecting vintage items at thrift stores and flea markets, watching classic films, and taking care of my dwarf hamster, you can also expect to occasionally see these topics on here as well!

Art and Blog Goals

In 2020, I would like to learn the fundamentals of art again. I am currently working through a book I recently purchased, “How to Draw What You See,” by Rudy De Reyna. I have already learned many great drawing techniques from this book, which I plan to share with you in the future! I also plan to learn more about watercolor. 

My goals for this blog are to share art tips with others, and to connect with people like me, who may struggle to create art due to external life factors, but have decided to get back into it despite any obstacles. I found the following quote by Vincent Van Gogh very inspiring:

“In spite of everything I shall rise again: I will take up my pencil, which I have forsaken in my great discouragement, and I will go on with my drawing.”

Some other goals I have for 2020 include making video tutorials, and to read more classic novels.

Did any of you set creative goals for 2020? Are you getting back into art or a different hobby? Comment below! I would love to hear your stories and feedback :)

As always, have fun and keep creating!