Category Archives: Watercolor

Creative Gathering Countdown: My Gouache Journey

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Gouache Swatches. ARTEZA Gouache.
Gouache Swatches. ARTEZA Gouache.

The swatching has begun! And so has the countdown to the next Creative Gathering.

Five days to go!

I have decided to practice using gouache during this gathering. For my birthday, I treated myself to the Arteza gouache paint, set of 60. I’ve researched the different brands, and found many artists who name Arteza as a high quality budget option. I learned that Arteza is part of Plaid products. I love Plaid! I’ve been using their paints for years.

So far I am excited by the feel, and the coverage of the paint. A little goes a long way! The water to paint ratio is going to be challenging. Each color is a little different. But that is true of watercolor as well. I am thrilled that the colors scan true to life. That means less fussing in Photoshop!

Paper is at the ready.
Reference materials are sorted.
So why do I still feel so nervous?
Why do I always feel nervous before starting the challenge?
Oh, well. I am excited to see everyone’s dailies.
And that helps distract me from myself.

See you February 1st!

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas



Wishing you laughter that echoes, peace that abides, and love that never fades.

I hope the magic of Christmas fills every corner of your heart and home with joy — now and always.

Merry Christmas & Blessed New Year!

Supporting a Friend in Crisis: How You Can Help

Yellow Tulips. 4 x 6 watercolor and pen on Arches 140 lb. cold pressed paper. © 2015 Sheila Delgado
Yellow Tulips. 4 x 6 watercolor and pen on Arches 140 lb. cold pressed paper. © 2015 Sheila Delgado

Hello my friends,

I am hoping you can help me get the word out. My good friend Lisa is in critical need of assistance. This is one of those, “it takes a village” situations. Lisa and I have known each other since high school. I wish I could do more than write a blog post, but you are well aware of my situation.

Lisa’s story is one of courage and resilience. Her strength was tested, caring for her parents as they fought illness in their final years. Still, she stood tall and carried on with grace. She has always put others first. Lisa is known for helping her neighbors in need. Shoveling sidewalks, gathering mail, tending to trash cans, mowing lawns. Whatever needed doing.

Lisa has always been self sufficient. She has owned her own small business since 2006. I hope you will take a moment and read more on her gofundme page. There are many ways you can help. Sharing this post with others is an excellent start.

Perhaps you know someone who would consider hiring her for at home, part-time remote work (or even flexible full-time) like writing, researching, or customer service.

You can visit her Etsy and Amazon shops, recommend them or make a purchase, and leave positive reviews (she is “Art by Iceberg” on all e-commerce sites and social media). You can see more of her handmade offerings on Instagram. Christmas is coming! Even small purchases can make a huge difference.

Thanks so much for taking the time to visit gofundme and for sharing the information with others. I’m grateful to you. I know it means the world to Lisa.

He gives power to the faint,
    abundant strength to the weak.

Isaiah 40:29

“Carry each other’s burdens,
and in this way you
will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Galatians 6:2

Yellow tulips symbolize friendship, appreciation, hope and new beginnings.
Legend has it they can bring good luck and prosperity.