I’m writing to you from Wisconsin, where I’ve been taking long walks in the woods around our house before heading into the studio. These walks inspire my creativity and lead it in new directions.
I often add words to the first layers of my paintings, such as poems I come up with on my walks about nature or simple memories. While they usually get covered up, I used to let them remain at the surface, showing through in the final painting.
Sometimes the words feel too vulnerable, which is why I often cover them up. However, it’s healing to have a place to express them, whether in a painting, a larger writing project, or through morning journaling.
As I’ve poured my heart into painting these last few weeks, I’ve noticed a tendency to cover up my paintings, much like I do with my words, whenever they feel outside my comfort zone. This specifically happens when I’m on the verge of a significant breakthrough.
Often, I come close to giving up.
Yet, I’ve learned to embrace imperfections, mistakes, and color experiments. They often become the best bits of a painting.
That’s what this painting is all about.
She’s called ‘Strength’ and inspired by springtime and sunshine, sunsets and butterflies. I almost covered her up because she felt too vibrant and off-beat. But that’s exactly why I love her now!
You can find original paintings in my shop.
I hope she inspires you to stay true to your own heart and follow your dreams.
When I’m stuck on a face, I often set aside my brushes and fingerpaint.
This keeps me unattached to my painting rather than getting into my head and “thinking” the eyes and features should look a certain way or be a certain shape.
Yet even after lots of layers, the eyes can still look too perfect and painted on.
That’s when I make a mess. I cover up more of my lines with paint pen, pour water on top, then add more water-soluble pencil smudges at the lashes to create softness (and beautiful mistakes).
It’s pretty common for me to repaint my eyes at least ten times.
Layer by layer, smudge by smudge, they begin to emerge and eventually resonate with my heart.
If you’re ever looking for ways to stay inspired and re-energize your creative practice, here are a few simple guidelines I follow:
- Establish a Daily Creative Routine: Start your day with a morning ritual that centers and inspires you, whether it’s journaling, sketching, or a barefoot walk in the grass.
- Immerse Yourself in Nature: Take regular walks in natural settings to refresh your mind, spark new ideas, and connect with the beauty of the world around you.
- Experiment Freely: Embrace playful experimentation in your creative process, allowing yourself to make mistakes and explore new techniques without any right or wrong.
If you don’t have a creative practice, I encourage you to give it a try. Find a sketchbook or grab a pencil and start doodling. Add words if you feel inspired. Go for a walk and take photos of whatever inspires you. Don’t hold back. Just have fun. Little moments of creative inspiration and joy can make a big impact that inspires you.
If you want something to help you get started, don’t miss my FREE Painting Classes. You’ll get instant access:
*Join My Free Sketchbook Class
*Join My Free Mixed Media Painting Class
I hope it all brings you a little calm and joy!
Happy painting!
xo Juliette
PS I’ve opened a few spaces for commissions. If you have envisioned having my work in your home in a particular size or color story, click here for details and get on the waitlist.