How a simple yellow iris reminded me that less can be more.

Not every painting needs hours of planning or perfect lines. In fact, some of the most freeing and rewarding pieces are the ones we create in a short burst of inspiration, with no pressure and no perfectionism.

This loose yellow iris came together with just a few bold strokes.
Lots of water.
A little pigment.
And a lot of letting go.

There were no tight outlines or detailed sketches—just a quick moment of play with a brush and some color. It reminded me how powerful simple tools and a little confidence can be. No overthinking, just painting.

One thing I always remind my students: drawing and painting are two different muscles. You don’t have to be great at both. That’s why I’ve included a free downloadable traceable for this iris painting—so you can skip the sketch and just focus on having fun with your brushwork and color.

I know many creatives—especially those juggling full plates with work, family, or running a business—feel like they need a big block of time to make something meaningful. But here’s the truth:

You don’t need hours to make art.
Sometimes, all it takes is ten minutes and a brush to reconnect with yourself.

If you're curious to explore more, I offer watercolor classes, art licensing, and creative content designed for people who value emotion, simplicity, and ease in their practice.

Want to give this painting a try? Join us on Patreon for this quick painting demo and give yourself permission to just play. 

💛
Kellie

Sharing a 3 minute Watercolor Poppy Tutorial with you!

NEW CLASS WATERCOLOR POPPIES COMING SOON! 

Happy February my creative loves!

Guess what....I am in prep mode for spring already! If you can believe it, for the first time evah (Maine accent), I have cute little tomato and cucumber seeds already started in little pots, and they have a little seedling already (so excited)!

Who's dreaming of summer days (as I sit here with this winter hat)? 

I've been on a poppy kick, one of my favorite summer flowers that I can't grow by the way. So if you can't grow them, paint them right!  I'm excited to share with you that  I have a New Watercolor Poppy Class in the works!

Watch the  FREE MINI TUTORIAL!

Would love to have you send me some of your favorite POPPY Photos (must be your photo and buy sending it you give me consent to paint and add to the class) I may pick one to add to the class project. You are also welcome to tag me on instagram or facebook. 

Wanted to share with you my new coffee mugs that I created using the same techniques in as in the DIY Alcohol Ink Wine Glass Course! By the way black electrical tape works very well too with the resin! 

P.S. I was wondering if you have a few seconds to help me out?

Please fill out the Survey here, much appreciated! 

XOXO,

Kellie

Alcohol Ink Flower Illustration Painting

Watch the video here: Alcohol Ink Flower Illustration Painting

Check out this simple alcohol ink demo tutorial - Last week we did the watercolor version, so check it out to see the differences between the two mediums. It's super fun to try it in another medium.  Again less than 15 minute warm up, the perfect project for a daily journal.  

I have the full demo video up on my youtube channel.

Here is last weeks watercolor version. Both of these are a very quick exercise but let me know in the comments below which one you prefer. 

This is a super easy way to create a very whimsical grouping of flowers very quickly. I'm using the brand Pinata inks by jacquard here along with some Mineral paper. We start with a very simple flower shape and try it with a few colors. Add some green stems then let that dry. Once it's dry you can use a black sharpie pen to outline the shapes giving it  wonderful illustration quality. Try using a few different brushes to see how it changes the flowers. Try the inks very wet and then more dry to see the difference in details.

I do offer up a Full online course on how to paint a lilac and sunflower, if you want to paint along!