On Making Art by and for Humans
In this post, I share my perspective as a human artist on why making art is an essential part of being human, and explore the relationship between Ai-generated images and art made by - and for - humans.
Behind the Scenes
Latest posts
How to Begin an Illustrated Journal Practice
Want to switch from writing your journal to illustrating it? In this post, I walk through my simple three-step process—pencil sketch, ink, and add color—so you can turn everyday moments into visual stories. I’m also sharing favorite journal pages from recent adventures and a free supplies & layout guide to help you get started.
Creating Compelling Podcast Cover Art
Ever wondered how podcast cover art comes to life? In this behind-the-scenes post, I share how I collaborated with Kelly MacLeod on “It Might Get Dark”, a podcast about grief and sobriety. From mood boards to final illustration, I combined traditional watercolor style with digital painting in Procreate to capture light, dark, and transformation—the heart of her story.
On Perfection
Is perfection getting in the way of your creativity? In this post, I share how I became a perfectionist, and my strategies for silencing self-doubt and enjoy making art again.
Illustrating The Emperor
This is a cross-post from my blog, Tarot of These Times. The Emperor card, number 2 in the Major Arcana, represents rules, power, and authority. It also represents patriarchy and other repressive systems. I am sharing this post with my Behind the Scenes blog subscribers on “No Kings” Day in the US.
Remembering a Furry Friend
A behind-the-scenes peek at my process for painting a sweet pet portrait of a client’s beloved family dog. Including my drawing process, what watercolor paint colors I used, and how I capture the face of a beloved family pet.
Painting Plants
I was a gardener for 20 years before I started drawing and painting plants. Now, I know these plants so much better. Learn tips and methods for how to sketch plants and natural landscapes in ink and watercolor, and see some of my favorite botanical illustration sketches.
Illustrating history
This is the story of how I restored this antique photograph of a 19th-century house, and turned it into a watercolor illustration that honors the family’s history.
An (Im)perfect Plan
I am a lifelong list-maker. Recently, I changed my habits to center creativity, self-care, and wholeness. Sound corny? It is, but it’s also been a healthy change. In this post, I share my personal daily planning process, thoughts on being creative vs. being productive, and my FREE DOWNLOAD daily planning worksheet.
You are creative. Really.
In this post, I share why I believe that we are all intrinsically creative. Includes resources for how to tap into your own creativity, plan your next creative project, or get 1:1 assistance or coaching support for your creative endeavor.
Watching Paint, Dry.
What it’s like being a visual artist who also has Dry Eye Disease. Starting in 2017 with LASIK surgery, my ability to use my eyes was limited to about two hours per day, broken up into 5-10 minute increments. This is the story of what impact that had on the trajectory of my life, and how it informs my work as a creative coach.
Taking Up Space
In this post, originally published in Upward Gallery Magazine, I describe how pivotal it has been to have a dedicated art space in my home, and my work to support others’ emerging creative voices.
Pink: The color everyone loves to hate
I used to hate the color pink. After I learned its history, and remembered how I loved it as a kid, I began to love it. Here's to the color that represents vulnerability, power, and love, and why that used to scare me.
Project planning tips for creatives
In this post, I share my top five tips for planning a creative project for success, based on my 20+ years of experience as a project project manager.
Sketching in Japan
My recommendations for art supply shops and creative inspiration from my recent trip to Japan, plus travel sketching spots not to miss. Includes: Tokyo, Kyoto, Ise-Shima, and Osaka.
Making ink from plants
I am infatuated with ink. Some people collect baseball cards or figurines. I collect ink. Recently, I learned how to make it myself. And now, I am sharing it with you!
The Affirmations Collection
For the past several years, I have been exploring my relationship with my inner dialog, a voice that is oftentimes more critical than supportive. Can you relate?
Finding calligraphy, finding myself
In this post, I share how I fell in love with calligraphy one dark and stormy night. Includes calligraphy learning resources for beginners.
My Neurotransmitter Constellations
The story behind my Neurotransmitter Constellations collection. Created in liquid watercolor, handmade oak gall ink, and hand-lettered calligraphy. Topics: love, family, anxiety, chronic illness, and the following of dreams despite it all.