a very artsy summer thus far
This summer has been a deeply creative and enriching experience, filled with diverse artistic activities that blend indoor technique with outdoor inspiration. One of the highlights has been experimenting with oil pastels. These versatile soft pastels lend themselves beautifully to creating rich, textured artworks. Using a variety of colors like sanguine and cyan, I've enjoyed capturing cottagecore scenes and luscious blackberry pie illustrations that evoke a cozy, nostalgic feeling. Cyanotyping, a novel technique I tried for the first time with friends, brought a fresh perspective to outdoor art-making. The process involves creating photo-sensitive prints using sunlight, which made it a delightful way to combine nature and art. It felt like crafting tangible memories of summer moments with friends. Sketchbook art, particularly while visiting places like Whidbey Island, WA, has been another essential part of this journey. Watercolor sketches of scenic landscapes and everyday wonders foster a mindful connection to the surroundings and sharpen observational skills. The fan painting done in gouache and watercolor for a brand collaboration added a professional yet personal touch to my portfolio, blending commercial and creative endeavors. Fun details like decorating sheet cakes with sprinkles and designing tiny toadstools for a print club have kept the creative energy playful and light-hearted. Each activity has contributed to a layered summer narrative, where traditional techniques meet fresh experimentation and community involvement. For artists looking to deepen their own summer art experiences, embracing multiple mediums and engaging in collaborative projects can open new doors. Whether it’s the tactile joy of oil pastels, the innovative method of cyanotyping, or the freedom of sketchbook excursions, balancing technique with personal expression creates a fulfilling creative journey. This balanced approach has made my artsy summer uniquely rewarding, inspiring continuous growth and joy in the creative process.