New YouTube video! ✨🍋🌸

It's been such a rewarding journey getting back into my art! For so long, my focus was squarely on my daughters, and while I wouldn't trade those precious years for anything, rediscovering my brushes and pencils feels like finding a lost part of myself. My latest YouTube video, which I'm so excited for you all to see, dives right into one of my favorite subjects: a detailed LIPS TUTORIAL. I know many artists, myself included, find rendering realistic lips a bit challenging, but with a few key techniques, it becomes much more approachable. When approaching a lips tutorial, I always emphasize starting with the basic forms. Think of the upper and lower lips as simplified shapes – perhaps two rounded forms for the upper lip and one larger, softer shape for the lower. Don't worry about perfect detail initially; focus on getting the overall proportion and symmetry right. Once those foundational shapes are in place, you can gradually build up the contours. Pay close attention to the philtrum (the vertical groove between the base of the nose and the border of the upper lip) and the cupid's bow, as these small details give so much character. Lighting is another crucial element. Observe how light hits the lips – usually, the lower lip catches more light and appears brighter, while the upper lip, especially under the cupid's bow, often has a subtle shadow. This interplay of light and shadow creates depth and dimension. For color, don't just reach for a single 'lip color.' Lips have a beautiful range of warm and cool tones, influenced by blood flow, skin tone, and natural pigmentation. Experiment with mixing reds, oranges, and even a touch of blue or purple to create realistic, vibrant hues. Blending is key to achieving that soft, natural look, whether you're using pencils, pastels, or paints. Adding texture is the final touch that truly brings a drawing or painting of lips to life. Think about the subtle lines and creases, especially when the lips are slightly parted or expressing emotion. Don't overdo it, though; a few carefully placed lines can convey texture without making the lips look chapped or aged. Practicing from reference photos is invaluable, and don't be afraid to exaggerate certain features to understand them better before refining your technique. Taking breaks, stepping away, and coming back with fresh eyes can also highlight areas for improvement. Getting back into a creative routine after a long break can feel daunting, but it's incredibly fulfilling. Start small, be patient with yourself, and celebrate every little step. This LIPS TUTORIAL is just the beginning of my renewed artistic journey, and I hope it inspires you to pick up your own tools and create something beautiful. Remember, art is about expression and enjoying the process, not just the perfect outcome. I can't wait to share more with you all!