Currently, I am having the BEST time playing with gouache and acrylics. Since I started a sketchbook (I use this term lightly because I sketch and paint on anything in my way), I have been loving creating loose and gestural mini paintings as well as working in pencil.
There is a freedom in cracking open your paints with the intention of “sketching.” Dipping into a palette that is usually only five hues—red, yellow, blue, white, and black—makes for a journey in endless color mixing possibilities!
Using what is right in front of me, like my patio garden, a favorite spot on the beach, or Wendy, my goofy two-year-old cat/BFF, I enjoy playing with line, shape, color, texture, and paper. Some sketches are quick, lasting 5-10 minutes, while others can take up to 30 minutes. My purpose in this practice or discipline is to grow my drawing, painting, and observation skills. I also benefit from the perks of creativity that instill focus, centeredness, joy, play, and a childlike curiosity about the world around me. As artists, we are lifelong learners. There is always a new technique, supply, or subject matter to explore. This is the best part of tapping into our artistic spirits and being intentional with a creative moment that is all our own. Be fearless and have FUN!
Here is a short list of my summer favorite supplies for you to try. Let me know what you are using and if any of these are ones you use or would like to give a try.
Winsor & Newton Gouache: Primary Red, Primary Blue, Primary Yellow, Ivory Black, and Zinc White.
Arches Watercolor Paper, Canson Mixed Media Sketchbook, Printer Paper
Blackwing Matte Pencils and Blackwing Sharpener
Princeton Heritage Series Watercolor Brushes. Sizes: 2, 6, 8, 12, 16
