Watercolor Leaves - A practice in Creative Mindfulness

Do you ever have those days where you want to create something, but your inspiration and creativity feels a bit distant? Some days we have more energy than others and can enthusiastically dive into big projects and plans, but others need a different type of creative practice. I know that I some days just want to play with my paints, getting some beautiful colors (and maybe some sparkles) onto paper to reconnect with my art supplies and my creative self. Just to paint without too much pressure or preparation.

My go-to for those days is to paint some lovely layered watercolor leaves, using smooth flowing strokes, letting the brush do most of the work and getting that satisfying feeling of creating something finished, perhaps at the end of a long day or to start your day off with a quiet creative moment. Working with just one color also lowers the threshold for starting, as you don't need to think about color mixing or matching.

I always enjoy finding new ways to get to know my paints and brushes and this class is a great way to do just that! And because yours doesn't need to look anything like mine or anything specific at all (like a reference photo) it gives you all the power and freedom to make it the way you'd like to! Go for longer, shorter, wider, thinner, darker or lighter leaves, finding joy in the process without feeling the pressure of a perfect outcome.

In addition to this spesific watercolor piece, the skills you'll be practicing in this class include water control, brush control, working with transparency and composition, as well as honing your ability to recognize what elements you like in your creative work, developing your sense of self as an artist.

For this class you'll need

- Watercolor paint (just one is enough!)

- Watercolor paper (preferably 300gsm thickness, cold pressed)

- Dagger brush or a round pointed brush

- Clean water

- A rag or tissue to wipe your brush

You might also enjoy having

- A palette to see your colors clearly

- Metallic watercolors (or ink, glittery gel pens or metallic markers)

Let's go!