The more I paint, the more I realize how much of my process relies on slow movements and details that often arise from the abstractions of color.

But my process also relies on surprise.

Sometimes, these surprises occur spontaneously, like when I’m not liking a painting and I just have to cover it up. Sometimes, it’s a feeling I have to follow, and it’s so freeing to cover up something you just don’t like.

There are some BIG ways that I’ve started covering up my paintings, and it has completely changed my creative process, making it so much more enjoyable to start and finish paintings I love…

It really came down to 3 things…

1. I cover up the initial face with acrylic ink
2. I pencil in new features using the old lines as a guide
3. I add more pencil and ink to blend and soften the edges

Green gold works well with cobalt teal and turquoise ink. That’s why I’ve deliberately kept the supply list simple in the Portrait Painting Masterclass – there’s a full list of the materials and colors I use available for free (just scroll down to the ‘What Materials WIll I Need?’ section here).

I’ve also been doing a lot of sketches for my latest paintings. The final work doesn’t necessarily look exactly like the sketch, but the drawing gives me a place to begin so I can clarify a feeling, thought, or emotion…

This new painting is inspired by new beginnings… she’s called Dance In Light. For this painting I wanted to maintain the sense of purity, wonder, and magic that came from my initial sketch. She’s meant to reflect that sense of seeing something for the first time, taking it all in and completely feeling grounded and peace in the present moment.

The invitation is to feel more freedom in your work, take a moment to experiment with new colors or supplies, and allow yourself to play. Don’t hold back. Just have fun with it. It can become a daily practice that inspires you.

When you look back at your art, start to notice what you love, what brought you the most freedom, what you remember having the most fun doing. Try incorporating these elements again. That’s when the magic happens, and your style can unfold.

If you’ve been wanting to join me for the Portrait Painting Masterclass the limited spaces are more than half-filled.

In case you missed it, there’s a fun little video sneak peek right here. 

Inside Portrait Painting you’ll find daily watercolor paintings, sketches, and layered portraits that you can create with just a few simple supplies. I’m keeping it all super simple so you can just get started and paint.

Happy Paiinting!

xo Juliette

PS Save The Date: February 23rd 🌈 For my Collectors, I’ll be releasing work from my new collection next week, so be sure to join the VIP LIST and keep an eye on your inbox.