I have a painting by Emily Powell—an artist I absolutely love. It’s bold, bright, and full of joy. Every time I walk into the room, it smiles at me—and I smile right back.
‘Just Know I’m Here‘ is a large, fun floral bursting with colour and life. It takes me straight back to the day I visited her studio: sunlight pouring through the barn doors, the paint-splattered floor, the laughter.
That memory lives in the painting.
i didn’t even know i was looking
The funny thing, I wasn’t even shopping!
The truth is, I didn’t even know I was looking for a painting—or where I’d put it.
But emotion took over, and I got completely carried away in the moment.
I actually bought two!
And I’ve never regretted it, and that moment of instinct led me to something lasting. Looking back, it wasn’t just a purchase—it was the start of calling myself an art collector.
what a painting title can mean
The title of the painting means even more to me. I lost my mum over twenty years ago, but she’s always with me—and this piece reminds me of that.
‘Just Know I’m Here’ still gives me goosebumps and watery eyes.
Flowers do that, don’t they? Whether someone you love is near or far, they can speak through a colour, a shape, a feeling.
When a painting finds you, you’ll know it is perfect for you!
carried away by joy, colour and something deeper!
Has art ever found you?
Have you ever bought a painting on instinct—or fallen for a piece before you knew where it would go? I’d love to hear your story. Share it in the comments below or drop me a message!
buying on instinct
Sometimes, the most meaningful pieces aren’t planned—they’re felt, in that moment. In my next post, I’ll be sharing why giving yourself permission to buy on instinct can lead to the most powerful and personal art choices of all.
If you’ve ever wanted to explore printmaking in a fun and approachable way, attending a Gelli print workshop is the perfect opportunity to let your creativity flow. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced artist looking to add a new dimension to your studio practice, Gelli printing offers a versatile and rewarding way to create unique, layered artwork.
So, let’s talk about what can you expect from a Gelli print workshop, and the benefits that experimenting with this medium can bring to your creative practise.
A Warm and Welcoming Environment
I recently ran a Gelli Print workshop in a local café, collaborating with the owner who provided delicious food. If you are looking for an experience as well as learning a new technique then I suggest you look for a workshop that offers more than just the practical lessons. Find one that welcomes you with a hot drink or perhaps lunch is included with the workshop. This gives you a chance to chat to other creatives, sharing ideas, or just have a catch up. This will set a relaxed tone for the day. A friendly and supportive environment will help you feel at ease and ready to experiment.
What to Expect – An Introduction to the Basics
At the start of the workshop, you will usually receive a demonstration of basic Gelli print techniques. It is important to get confident with the basics, learn how to apply paint to the Gelli plate, blend colours, and use simple techniques to create stunning patterns. My biggest tip is less is more, in the workshops I have led students tend to put way too much paint on the plate, they soon learn that a very thin layer will produce intriguing results. An introduction to the basics will ensure you feel confident before you begin your own creative exploration.
Using botanicals as inspiration is super accessible and will produce some fabulous and often unexpected results. Just pick some leaves on your way to the workshop from your garden or hedgerow. Try using leaves, flowers, and natural materials to create intricate and organic prints. You’ll discover how to layer these elements and explore textures to bring your prints to life.
hands-on experimentation
The true joy of Gelli printing lies in the hands-on experience. Just roll up your sleeves and start creating your own prints using a variety of papers, botanicals, and techniques. Don’t worry about making mistakes — the fun is in the experimentations. Embrace the unexpected results that make each print unique. In the images below you will see the use of a mask to generate a negative and positive print.
benefits of gelli printing
1. No Pressure, Just Play: Gelli printing encourages a playful and experimental mindset, helping to overcome creative blocks and fear of making mistakes.
2. Immediate Results: Unlike many art forms, Gelli printing offers instant gratification. You’ll see your ideas come to life within minutes.
3. Mindfulness and Relaxation: The process of rolling paint, pressing leaves, and peeling paper away can be incredibly therapeutic and stress-relieving.
4. Unique and One-of-a-Kind: Each print you create is a monoprint, meaning it’s one-of-a-kind — no two prints are ever exactly the same.
5. Applicable to Other Projects: The skills you learn can be used in other creative areas like mixed media, card-making, and collage art.
A Gelli print workshop is more than just learning a new skill — it’s about discovering the joy of creativity, embracing the unexpected, and taking time for yourself. Let me know how you use a Gelli Plate in your studio practise.
First let me explain what an Artist Adventure is… It is a project that has grown into a creative journey. Rachael Johnson and I share this journey. We have been art accountability buddies for over two years.
We regularly meet to collaborate on projects and build our art businesses. During this time we’ve noticed how meeting up sparks new ideas, boosts our energy, and keeps our momentum going.
Now, we are taking things a step further. We are going to be documenting our adventures. We will be expanding to new locations. We are keeping things simple.
Our goal? To remain creatively curious and inspire others to give it a try. With no set agenda and only limited materials, we simply enjoy a day out. It includes at least one artistic activity. It will be just one of our Artists Adventures.
The images above show you a peak at the sketchbook pages we created on our Artists Adventures.
The Power of collaboration
Working with an accountability buddy has completely transformed my art journey. Rachael and I regularly meet up, and each time we do, it reignites my passion for creativity. We bounce ideas off each other. We also get honest feedback. Having someone alongside me who shares my love for art has been invaluable.
Our First Artists Adventure
Our first adventure together as “Artists Adventures” took us to the stunning town of Valldemossa. It is a hidden treasure in the Tramuntanta Mountains. The drive was breathtaking. It wound through ancient olive trees and stone buildings.
We dodged goats and cyclists on the narrow mountain road. The town itself felt like it had been pulled straight from a painting. Stone paths, terraced hills, and olive trees provided endless inspiration.
We settled in the square, set up our materials, and just let the creativity flow. I started with bright blue crayons and lime green paint. I made marks across multiple sketchbook pages. I was influenced by the turquoise tiles of the bell tower, pictured above. The beauty of working in a new place was how easily the ideas flowed.
Do you ever get stuck with the blank page? I know that this can stop me creating. I highly recommend you try working outside to give you freedom and confidence.
Immersed in the moment
What I loved most was how engrossed we became in our art. Despite people passing by and even a group of teenagers sitting nearby, we were totally in the zone.
With no worries about what anyone thought—I was simply enjoying the process.
The images below offer a small taste of the colours, shapes and views that inspired me.
Energy & Inspiration
By the end of the day, I felt energised and inspired. This was just the start, and I’m excited to continue exploring new places and seeing how they influence my art. If you’re feeling stuck creatively, I encourage you to grab a sketchbook and get outside. It’s amazing what a change of scenery can do!
Pack your pencil case with a couple of crayons. Add a pencil and a fine line pen. Just see what you can create.
how You Can get involved
To stay updated with all Artists Adventures, please sign up below. Additionally, you can get hints and tips to start your own adventure.
Have you ever embarked on your own artistic adventure? I’d love to hear about your favourite moments or the challenges you’ve faced along the way!
Do you find working outside fuels your creativity, or is your inspiration drawn from other places? Let’s share our stories!
What tools or supplies are always in your art kit? Anything unexpected you’ve discovered along the way?
Please share in the comments below.
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Imagine walking into your newly redecorated living room, the light catching on an original piece of art that not only enhances the space but becomes the conversation starter for everyone who enters. This is the essence of “Urban Whispers,” a standout piece from my Urban Exploration collection. Click here to explore the painting.
I am obsessed by old industrial buildings, and love to imagine the history and stories within them. My studio is based close to the Ironbridge Gorge an area steeped in industrial history, which is where I find my inspiration for the Urban Exploration Collection.
Unique and One-of-a-Kind
“Urban Whispers” is not just a painting; it’s a unique expression of the beauty you see in old industrial buildings, the texture, patterns and energy captured on canvas. Unlike mass-produced prints, this original artwork ensures that your home reflects a distinct and personal style. You won’t find another piece exactly like it, meaning your space will truly stand out.
Rich Textures and Dynamic Composition
The richly textured layers and vibrant interplay of colours in “Urban Whispers” bring a dynamic energy to your room. The intricate details and the complexity of the composition create a focal point that draws the eye and sparks the imagination. It’s not just decor—it’s an experience. One of our customers raved, “Wow! Love the cool urban vibe,” capturing the essence of what this piece brings to any space.
Personal Connection and Story
Each brushstroke and colour choice in “Urban Whispers” is a part of my journey and vision, making this piece a personal statement that you can share with guests. This painting comes with a story, one that you can connect with and proudly display in your home. The images above show stages in my process from taking the photograph on location, playing with composition and the early stages of building texture.
Versatility and Inspiration
“Urban Whispers” is designed to complement various interior styles, from modern to eclectic. Its bold colors and textures can tie together different elements in your decor, adding coherence and sophistication to your space. This versatility makes it a perfect fit whether you’re redecorating, moving into a new home, or looking to refresh a single room. The images below show details from the paintings showing the richness of texture and colour.
Investment in Original Art
By choosing “Urban Whispers,” you’re not only enhancing your living space but also investing in original art. This piece, created with high-quality materials and crafted with care, offers potential value appreciation over time. Owning an original painting like this is a testament to your support of the arts and your unique taste.
Incorporating “Urban Whispers” into your home is more than just a decorative choice—it’s a statement of individuality and a step towards creating an environment that is uniquely yours. Let this piece solve the problem of finding unique art that truly stands out and transforms your space into an extraordinary reflection of your personal style.
Traveling is a remarkable adventure, filled with new experiences, sights, and stories. What if you could capture those moments not just in photographs but in a more personal, creative way? Enter the travel sketchbook, a compact and versatile companion for any journey.
Embrace the Creative Process
The beauty of a travel sketchbook lies in its flexibility. It’s a personal canvas where you can sketch landscapes, flowers, animals, jot down thoughts, create collages, and even experiment with mixed media.
There’s no pressure to make it perfect—each page is a unique snapshot of your journey. As you create, you’ll find that the act of sketching helps you see the world in a different light, appreciating details and capturing memories in a way that photos alone can’t.
Create a Lasting Keepsake
By the end of your trip, your sketchbook becomes a cherished keepsake filled with personal stories, artistic experiments, and a tangible record of your travels.
Unlike a digital album, a travel sketchbook has a tactile quality that invites you to revisit and relive your journey with every turn of the page. As you are creating it sparks conversations with fellow travellers you meet along the way.
Take a look at some of the pages from my travel sketchbooks below.
So, on your next adventure, bring along a travel sketchbook. It doesn’t just capture where you’ve been—it captures how you felt, what you saw, and the unique moments that made your journey unforgettable.
In my next blog I will be sharing my own travel sketchbook from a recent trip to Baja. I will be sharing my top tips for having just the right media in your pencil case to ensure you can capture your experiences, so why not sign up to my mailing list to ensure you don’t miss it.
If you have been keeping your own travel sketchbooks I’d love to hear of how this works for you, do you have any top tips to share? Do you prepare your books before you go? It would be great to hear your experience, please comment below.
If you would like to share pages from your own travel sketchbooks I would love to feature them in my next blog post and on my social media. Please email them to me – sam@samwatersartist.com
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My sketchbook collaboration project started from an act of kindness really. I had seen on social media that artist Sue Bulmer was focussing for a whole year on creating concertina sketchbooks as a way to fuel her creative soul. Her plan was to create one sketchbook every month.
how could i reach out
As an artist I seem to generate and collect lots of collage papers, too many to ever use myself. As I sat in my studio surrounded by mountains of collage paper, I was inspired by Sue’s project and thought I should send her some of my collage papers for her to use in her sketchbooks. I was thinking how much I would enjoy receiving a package of papers from another artist.
What marks, what colours, textures and types of papers would be different to those that I usually use.
So I selected a range of handmade and found papers, wrote a note, packaged it all up and sent it off in the post…I don’t think Sue will mind if I say that she was very surprised and overjoyed to receive such a surprise package in the post.
What happened next
We arranged to have a video call so we could chat, we immediately hit it off and soon decided that we should think of a combined project that we could work on together, our sketchbook collaboration project was born.
Mindful and very low pressure
We wanted it to be low key with no pressure as we both already had pretty full schedules, we made our own rules, or rather decided not to have any! The basis of the project was that we both made a concertina sketchbook, each of us would work on a few pages in any way we chose and then we would post the book to the other artist for them to carry on.
It was fun to receive the book in the post, to see what Sue had done and what goodies she had sent for me to work with. I found working in the book calming, it didn’t have any expected outcome, just a fun few hours. Once I started in the studio, the pages took on a life of their own.
A friendship has been formed
From that moment our friendship has grown, we now have regular video calls and even arranged an in person meet to exchange our sketchbooks, visit a gallery and have a lovely art chatty lunch.
A joyful resource
The books we have made are a joyful playful resource. Packed full of colour and marks, one very pink the other blues. Some pages shout that they need some calm, others need more to be added. Already we have been working for just over a year and there is more to come.
I would highly recommend thinking about doing your own collaboration project as it is a great way to spark new ideas, make connections, push you to respond to marks and colours that you may never have chosen.
How to start you own creative collaboration
Find out how to start your own creative collaboration in my next blog post.
Want to know more about our collaboration project ? Then why not enter your email below to receive my newsletter where I share updates of our progress.
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The long dark days of winter offer a chance to hunker down in the studio, to re-build my creative energy, to read for inspiration and experiment in my sketchbook, but I long for the brighter warmer days when the studio door can be left open and I can hear the bird song floating on the air and everything just seems that little bit lighter. I am an abstract floral artist, so join me as I delve into how Spring is weaving its magic into my creative practise, bringing colour and joy.
Spring sparking action
When the days start to get longer in the UK, I know that Spring is finally here and my studio becomes bathed in this new light, I’ve no idea why but I find it so much easier to work, my energy levels rise and creativity starts to flow.
The arrival of Spring has also meant a studio tidy, it is really important to set up my environment to allow my new work to have room to breathe. It is very frustrating constantly tripping over stuff and rooting through piles of papers to find the tool that I need buried beneath.
colour inspiration and new shoots
Spring is a time for new shoots, and this is how I feel about starting my latest collection of paintings, at this point I’m not even sure where they are heading but having a clean clutter free space with all the tools, paints, mediums and surfaces ready to go will be more productive.
Out and about on my walks I am noticing more colour, the trees are bursting out in fantastic displays of frothy colour. The camellia have been spectacular and so many varieties just on my daily dog walk around the block. The flower is quite rose like in structure, but so hardy producing prolific flowers in every shade of pink, deep reds, and delicate whites at a time of year when most plants are still sleeping.
how to maintain creative momentum
As there isn’t much colour about at the moment I have really been struck by these beautiful bushes. Where the blooms have been hanging over the pavement, I have picked a stem to take back to the studio for some blind drawing practise. I draw the same bloom multiple times, using different media, both wet and dry. This practise really makes me see how the petals are structured, where the light and dark tones fall, the different shapes and how the waxy leaves are juxtapose to the soft satiny petals.
Gorgeous Pinks
The blind, tonal drawings and sketchbook play which capture the essence of Spring in these floral beauties have inspired new elements of shape, vivid colours and a softness for me to explore further in larger studies.
Whats on the Studio Wall
Spring Summary
As I immerse myself in the vibrant hues of spring and let nature guide my creative practise, I’m reminded of the renewal of the season. With a clutter free studio and the palette Spring I am jumping in with both feet ready to explore fresh inspiration and experimental discoveries.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on the new season and if you are including it in your own creative practise, please let me know in the comments below, or send me an email.
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Ever walked into a gallery, seen a breath-taking original painting, and thought, “I wish I could, but it’s probably out of my price range”? Well, hold on to that thought, because I’m about to debunk that myth and show you how investing in an original piece is not just a wonderful treat but a savvy move for your heart, soul and your wallet.
1.The Myth of the Unattainable:
Original art doesn’t have to break the bank. Let’s break it down: that mesmerizing painting you’ve been eyeing for £200. Now, think about your daily coffee fix or that magazine subscription – those little expenses add up, right? Sacrifice just one coffee a day or one magazine a week, and voila, you’ve got your masterpiece fund.
2. Art: A Daily Dose of Joy:
Unlike a caffeine boost or a magazine that’s quickly forgotten, a piece of original art is an investment in daily joy. Picture this: waking up every morning to a stunning painting that speaks to your soul. It’s not just a decoration; it’s a mood lifter, a conversation starter, and a source of inspiration.
3. The Ripple effect of Beauty:
Consider the ripple effect of beauty on your life. That original painting isn’t just a static piece on your wall; it’s a dynamic force that can elevate your mood, spark your creativity, and create a harmonious atmosphere in your space. Can your daily coffee or weekly magazine subscription claim that?
4. Coffee Cups vs. Canvas:
Let’s get real – that daily latte might give you a quick buzz, but it won’t be a lasting source of inspiration. Swap a month’s worth of coffee cups for an original artwork, and watch how the joy it brings will outlast any caffeine high.
5. Owning a Piece of Someone’s Soul:
When you buy an original painting, you’re not just acquiring an object; you’re taking home a piece of the artist’s soul. The emotions, the passion, and the dedication poured into each brushstroke become a part of your daily life, making your connection to the artwork truly special.
So, next time you think that original art is beyond your reach, remember: a small sacrifice in daily expenses can lead to a lifetime of joy and inspiration. Make the investment, indulge in the beauty, and let your walls tell a story that’s uniquely yours. Happy art hunting!
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Ever felt lost in the vast world of art after a stint in the corporate world? Join me on my art journey, where I stumbled upon the perfect partner-in-crime for accountability, Rachael, who helped transform my creative endeavours. Let’s dive into the messy, inspiring, rollercoaster ride that has been my art adventure so far.
Setting the Scene: From Corporate to Canvas
After 28 years as an IT project manager, I took the plunge back to my artistic roots. The creative bug bit me, and I needed an outlet beyond the corporate grind. With my entrepreneurial spirit and creativity I launched myself into a new world of art and creativity.
Finding Rachael: The Unplanned Art Buddy
Cue the entrance of Rachael! Our paths crossed during ‘POD’ calls, revealing a shared sense of adventure. Little did I know, she’d become my indispensable art buddy. Check out her fabulous work here Rachael Johnson Art . A ‘POD’ is a group of artists at similar stages, it was set up as part of an art membership I belong to.
Weekly Arty Chats: Consistency is Key
Every Monday, Rachael and I embark on our ‘Arty Chats.’ No matter where life takes us, we ensure our creative fires keep burning. Beaches, car parks, or moving vehicles – nothing stops us!
Tech Tools and Techniques
We’ve tried it all – Teams, Messenger, but the magic happens on What’s App. Weekly Video calls followed up with messages during the week, which ensures we check on progress and keep on track. Google Docs for sharing, Insta for any immediate updates – we’ve found that these tools keep us dynamic and low maintenance!
Big Rock Project: Art Fair Dreams
Our 2023 dream of a joint Art Fair didn’t quite pan out, we each did a fair individually and learnt a lot, but 2024 West Sussex is on the horizon for us both. Click here for more details. Rachael and I share tips, suppliers, and critiques, turning setbacks into stepping stones. It is so helpful having someone to bounce ideas off, and support me and for me to be able to offer support.
Healthy Competition and Motivation
Rachael’s my secret weapon! Healthy competition keeps us on our toes. When she nails a task, I’m spurred to action. Mutual motivation at its finest!
In-person Sessions: From Art Trails to Prosecco Brainstorms
Picture this: Art Trails, prosecco, and brainstorming. Our in-person sessions go beyond the screen, infusing creativity, generating excitement and energy. Collaborating is not just productive – it’s a blast!
Structured Sessions and Monthly Reviews
Our weekly sessions now have a rhythm, with structured topics to check in on each week. Monthly reviews with defined metrics help us track our progress, ensuring we stay on the right creative track. It really is a combination of creative studio time and business topics.
Quarterly Gamechanger: The Power of In-person Meet Ups
In-person meetups are the cherry on top! Quarterly sessions add a spark, turning our creative plans into concrete actions. Face-to-face magic! Top Tip, find somewhere mid distance between you, select a great meeting place, we like The Boston Tea Party, for great food and BIG tables so we can spread out. Take a portable creative activity – to start kick the brain into creative thinking, remember this is an art business and should be FUN.
Artistic Buddy Advice: Seek, Share, and Inspire
To all artists out there, find your own Rachael. Expect accountability to be a two-way street, where inspiration, skills and experience flow both ways. Accountability and finding a buddy are the key that unlocks the excitement and builds the energy in your artistic journey. Check out Rachael’s thoughts here.
Conclusion: Accountability Unleashes Energy, Excitement and Fun
Art accountability is not just a buzzword; it’s the secret sauce that makes the journey thrilling. Unleash your creativity and embrace the exciting twists of our artistic adventure. Building our art businesses on collaboration, kindness and accountability has been a huge success for both of us.
I’ve spilled the beans on my transformative art accountability journey with Rachael, and now I would love to hear YOUR stories! Whether you’re just starting your creative adventure of if you are an established artist, share the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Drop your stories in the comments and we can all share our creative accountability experience.
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