Welcome to month 2 of the Elegance and Enchantment Creative Challenge! If you are just stumbling across this post and want to read more about the origins of the challenge and how you can get involved, I encourage you to start with this post and then pop back over to this one.
I hope everyone enjoyed taking part in Challenge 1, which included sewing, knitting, crocheting, needlepoint, quilting, looming and more! I will be publishing a recap with photos, stories and posts from all the participants, next week.
Challenge 2 will take place from February 13th – March 13th, but as I mentioned last month, please take the extra time if you need it (I did)! During this time frame I challenge you to explore the medium of watercolor painting.
Choosing your subject matter can be a challenge in itself, so I’ve listed a few different ideas below to get those creative juices flowing.
1. Dream destination
Whether you want to escape the wintery weather, explore a new corner of the globe, or return back to a spot that holds a special place in your heart, bring that place to life through paint!
2. Furry friends
Choose a great photo and use it to paint a portrait of your pet, or your favorite animal/creature.
3. Favorite things still life
Think about all the things that make you extra happy, gather them up and set up a still life (think coffee mugs, mason jars, twinkle lights, shoes, books, etc).
4. Abstract
Allow yourself to paint freely, without focusing on a subject. Experiment with color combinations, overlays, brush stroke and use the time to express yourself and your feelings.
5. Florals, plants and landscapes
Explore natural elements and bring them to life on your page. Pick a bouquet of your favorite flowers, do an up close study of a leaf, or if you live in a warm-weather climate, set up your paints outdoors and paint what’s around you.
If you think you may need some help with technique or how to get started, consider following an online tutorial or taking a local class:
– Pinterest Tutorials
– Craftsy Tutorials (check out this brand new FREE watercolor guide!)
– Classes at your local craft store like Jo-Ann Fabrics, Michaels, or AC Moore
– Classes at your local town center, museum, or adult continuing education
Need to stock up on materials? Here are a few places to check out:
– Amazon’s Arts, Crafts & Sewing Department
– Etsy Marketplace
– Your local art store
Tight on cash? Ask a family member or friend if you can borrow or use paints, brushes or pads that they might have. You don’t need to spend a ton to be a great artist!
Remember to share your creative projects with the community!
1. Join the official Creative Challenge Facebook Group
Ask questions about technique, share your struggles and show off your progress
2. Collaborate in the Creative Challenge Pinterest Board
Share your favorite projects, tips and tutorials. Please request to contribute to this board by following the board, following me, and leaving a comment on one of the board’s pins asking to be added. All are welcome!
3. Use the hashtag #EECreativeChallenge
Snap photos of your work and share on Instagram
4. Write your own blog posts chronicling your creative journey
I’m happy to promote, pin and share!
I can’t wait to see what everyone comes up with this session!
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