7 Things Radagast the Brown Has Taught Me About Illustration

Radagast the Brown Watercolor Illustration Really it was upon completing my illustration of Radagast the Brown that I had an "ah-ha" moment, not actually a lesson from Radagast himself. :-)  How cool would that be to meet a fictional healing wizard?! My realization was this: In order to successfully create designs I love and promote (and market - oneday) I have decided to establish and prioritize a creative routine.But - I have to keep it. This includes saying "no" to events and favors for others that distract me from my goal, and carving out most of my week specifically for designing. This also includes saying "yes" to events and people that inspire and support my goal. I'm continually learning what it means for me to "be an independent illustrator". This is not something that defines who I am; it's simply something I love to do a majority of my time. At this point, being independent illustrator means:  1) keeping my creative doors open - letting the vibes do their thing 2) seeking out new design ideas & techniques - technical education 3) letting the Universe guide me (!! This is a big one for me. Release the need to control.) 4) staying away from negativity & drama (creative doors close tight for me if this is an influence in my life) 5) taking my time - I have to embrace "my own way" 6) and understanding there is always something more for me to learn in the art field (and life - haha).  7) Last but not least, on being independent - I also believe that the energy I offer to support and encourage others to achieve their personal and professional goals comes back my way. It's a "win-win" attitude and it feels great too! This is really "a journey" for me. Until I take one step, the next one isn't revealed. It's a balance between having an idea and then implementing it. It's a balance between "talking", "wishing", and "taking action". It's a balance between listening to others and listening to my own heart. Life isn't black and white. It all works together. If I allow myself to relax and let life flow, inspiration comes magically. Except it really isn't magical, is it. It seems to be a blend between logical and spiritual happenstance. :-D With that, I'll close, leaving Radagast to explain his unspoken magical message.

Ice Cream Shop - Watercolor Illustration

Owl Ice Cream Shop Watercolor An acquaintance purchased an ice cream concession stand and mentioned he'd like to use an owl eating ice cream for his logo. I was inspired to draw several sketches. This is one of the more "cartoony" styles.

2018 Happy Christmas Goodie Mug - Watercolor and Tradigital Painting

Christmas Watercolor Art Greetings! I finally made it through the holidays (other than one more meetup) to paint this cutie-pie in a cup. About the inspiration for this piece: there is a video going around Facebook and MeWe.com of a girl who walks through a public park and tons of rabbits are filmed hopping down the street and sidewalk after her. With the holidays here, I thought "how I would love to capture one and stick him in a mug!" (I've also seen images of small breed bunnies in mugs on Pinterest.) And since I love that darn sugar, forget the lettuce and carrots this season! Hope you enjoy!

Blue Bird Derwent Inktense

Blue Bird Inktense Watercolor Illustration I'm still exploring the Derwent Inktense watercolor pencils.

Whimsical Inktense Bird Illustrations

A Bit of Whimsy in These Birds In this post I want to share two more bird illustrations created with Derwent Inktense watercolor pencils. The first piece reminds me of an icy-cold winter scene with the digital effects. Perfect for a Minnesota winter. ;-) The second bird perches in a warmer climate, of course, with the yellow background.

Black-Capped Chickadee Bird and Berries Art

Black-Capped Chickadee Illustration I'm beginning to realize that Black-Capped Chickadees are one of my favorite birds. Every artist's Chickadee interpretation touches my heart and I find myself saying "Awe, so sweet". When I see them bouncing from branch to branch in the yard, I like to mimic their calls.   Here is another rendition of a Chickadee I made initially with Derwent Inktense watercolor pencils.

Bird Designs - Derwent Inktense Watercolor Pencil

Whimsical Bird Illustrations for December Here are a couple of my bird designs created with Derwent Inktense pencils. I absolutely love Minnesota winters, so I'm not sure where the tropical color scheme came from for this set of birds! Derwent Inktense pencils are permanent after they are activated with water. It's always interesting to see how the pigment settles. :0)