Although my work is more intuitive and personal, I'm always attracted to artists who clearly communicate a strong, meaningful message. Stephen Mangum is one such artist. He grew up in the south in the 50s and 60s and witnessed firsthand disturbing events during the...

Last week I showed you a way to make dark lines by covering up shapes and leaving remnants of color. Today I want to show you how to create light lines in a similar but different way. Check this out… Leaving light hairlines where shapes of similar values meet is a...

I love working with lines in my art. Usually, I use a tool like a pencil to make lines. But today, I thought I would share a different way to create lines and add richness to your work. Have a look here. I have found surprisingly beautiful and different lines by...

I’m often asked how I come up with all the shapes in my art. It turns out, shapes are found everywhere. So, by paying attention as you go through your day, you can discover shapes to bring into your art. Another way I find shapes is by working with ones I already love...

I am super excited that our annual SPARK Program starts this coming week! It is a 21-day program designed to start or re-energize your art-making. In the program, everyone makes their own SparkBook, so today, I thought I would share mine with you, along with a very...

Here is a quick way to get paint down on paper, or even canvas. I love starting this way when I don't have much time and want something to be bold and full of juice. It has everything to do with the way you apply the paint. Let me show you… Starting boldly or using...

I used to worry so much about my art. Will it ever be good enough? Will I ever develop my unique style? Will I ever be able to get it out into the world? It turns out I am not alone. I frequently hear these concerns from other artists, too. What makes things even...

Do you like busy or simple art? There is, of course, beauty in both. I love the complexity of a Persian carpet, but I also am drawn to the sublime, minimal paintings of Mark Rothko. In the end, you want to do the kind of work that brings you alive. There isn't one...

Years ago, I remember moving into a much bigger studio. So big, in fact, I planned on sharing because it was more than I needed and felt too big. However, while getting the space ready, I realized I loved the spaciousness and decided to keep it for myself. That bigger...

I sometimes add materials to my paintings, like paper, to create texture. Today I want to share with you a way you can create amazing texture with just paint. You make this texture with gesso before you start your actual painting. It creates effects that stay with...