Cindy Briggs Art

Creativity and Wellness: Why Creativity Feels So Restorative

Cindy Briggs — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 07:40:30 +0000

How Creative Practice Supports Wellness, Clarity, and Emotional Balance

Creativity has a quiet, powerful way of supporting our well-being — no matter what season of life we’re in.

When we paint, draw, write, dance, photograph, or make something with our hands, we give ourselves permission to slow down. Creative expression creates space to release stress, shift our focus, and reconnect with what feels meaningful. Often, we feel the benefits before we even realize they’re happening.

Research continues to show that creative activities can ease anxiety, lift mood, and promote emotional balance. Creativity isn’t about producing something “perfect.” It’s about allowing yourself time to be present, curious, and open.

Creativity and the Healing Power of Nature

Recently, my husband and I stepped away from our usual routines and spent time exploring Monument Valley, Arches National Park, Canyonlands, and the nearby Wasatch Mountains. The stillness of these landscapes offered exactly what I needed as I prepared for the new year — calm, clarity, and renewed inspiration.

Being immersed in nature creates a natural rhythm for reflection. Paired with creativity, it becomes deeply restorative.

Create Something — Just Because

You don’t need a plan. You don’t need an outcome. You just need space.

Clarity often emerges in the calm we allow ourselves to create — and share with others.

Watch the Finished Painting

You can see completed paintings from this recent experience in a 3.5-minute video on YouTube.

Watch the video here

Art is not about thinking something up, it’s about letting something come through you.”
— Julia Cameron,The Artist’s Way

“When people create, they often experience improved mood, increased clarity, and a greater sense of well-being.”
— Kim Nguyen, Clinician, Diversus Health

Learning Through Creative Practice

I’m now in my 7th year of creating online programs, with over 800 hours of lessons designed to support artists at every stage.

Online Programs include:

Workshops & Artful Travel Experiences

I’m grateful to also share creativity through in-person workshops and hosted events, including:

Hosted Online Workshops

Plein Air & Studio Workshops

With Theresa Goesling

A Gentle Start to the Year

The beginning of the year often arrives full of momentum — inboxes overflowing, schedules restarting. I chose to pause, reflect, and consider what I wanted to share most: a wish for peace, creativity, and well-being in your life.

Thank you for taking time to read and share this journey.

Wishing you a year of good health and happiness,

– Cindy Briggs Battles

P.S. If you have creative friends who would enjoy this experience, please feel free to share this post.
P.S.S. Questions are always welcome at CindyBriggsArt@gmail.com

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What Watercolor Landscape Do You Feel Connected To?

Cindy Briggs — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 05:54:36 +0000

Discover how your favorite places can inspire your art—and your heart.

We all have that one landscape that stirs something inside us.

For some, it’s the quiet whisper of the sea. For others, it’s the crisp air of the mountains or the golden peace of a sunlit meadow—each one a unique watercolor landscape waiting to be painted. Nature speaks to each of us differently. And for those who
paint—especially with watercolors—these landscapes don’t just stay in our memories. They flow from our hearts, through our brushes, and onto paper.

“In every walk in nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” — P. B.

The Mountains: Where Stillness Meets Majesty

Mountains inspire both strength and reflection. With their towering peaks and shifting shadows, they remind us of our place in the world. Watercolor brings this majesty to life—the softness of distant ridges, the textures of rock and snow, the quiet mist in the air.

“I live in Colorado and feel most connected to the Rocky Mountains!” — Ei.

“As a Colorado native, I feel most at home with the mountains—especially the red rocks. That scene feels quite spiritual to me.” — D.

“The mountains in the American West have always been a place to rest and recharge.” — K. W.

“Until you asked the question, I didn’t realize how much mountains help me feel grounded.” — S. F.

If the mountains are calling to you, perhaps they offer the space and strength your spirit needs.

Waterfalls: Energy in Motion

Waterfalls stir emotion—fluid, powerful, and refreshing. For the watercolorist, they offer a joyful challenge: the white of the paper, the suggestion of movement, the softness of mist.

“Your paintings touch my heart. I love clouds,
seeing God’s creation in them.” — El.

If you’re drawn to waterfalls, perhaps you seek momentum, change, or emotional renewal.

The Beach: Calm, Rhythm, and Open Skies

There’s something deeply soothing about the shore—the gentle rhythm of waves, the breeze on your skin, the dance of light across the water. These qualities are mirrored beautifully in watercolor with soft blends, shifting hues, and flowing strokes.

“At the beach!” — W.

“I feel most at home at the shore, watching the waves splash up over the rocks.” — K. A.

The ocean may speak to you if you long for flow, freedom, or peace.

The Forest: Quiet, Green, and Grounding

A walk among the trees offers shelter and serenity. The shifting greens, browns, and golds of a forest can ground us like nothing else. Painting a woodland scene invites layered washes, earthy tones, and the magic of light through leaves.

“When walking in a forest, I feel a spiritual connection with the world… The calm. The greens. The trees. The flora. The fauna.” — M. B.

“Another place I feel connected to nature is my back porch, watching birds and squirrels. Their antics remind me we’re all part of nature.” — M. B.

Forests remind us to slow down, breathe deeply, and notice the quiet beauty all around.

Farmlands & Countryside: Simplicity and Connection

Golden hills, rustic barns, and weathered fences speak of tradition, work, and peace. These landscapes are ideal for watercolor, offering light-filled skies and textured fields.

“We’ve lived in cities and by the sea, but the countryside is where we feel most at home.” — S.

“Yorkshire wins hands down for me—with its valleys, moorlands, and winding roads. It’s a grand day out.” — S.

Perhaps you’re most at ease in the simplicity and rhythm of rural life.

Fields of Flowers: Color, Joy, and Abundance

Fields bursting with color—lavender, poppies, sunflowers—evoke joy and vibrancy. In watercolor, flowers shine with expressive brushwork, soft edges, and vivid hues.

“The view of the Val d’Orcia from our terrace in Tuscany belongs to me. I go there in my mind’s eye when I need peace and a reset.” — C.C.

If your heart blooms with color, flower fields may be the landscape that feels like home.

Red Rocks and Desert Light

For some, peace is found in the glow of sandstone at dusk or the quiet of wide-open spaces. The American Southwest, with its warm tones and sculptural beauty, invites bold color choices and atmospheric washes.

“The red rocks of Garden of the Gods were part of my childhood view. I often meditate by imagining myself in a red rock cave, looking out into the valley.” — D.

Red rock landscapes often speak to those seeking clarity, stillness, and spiritual reflection.

Let Nature Guide Your Watercolor Landscape Journey

Whatever watercolor landscape calls to you—listen. Let it guide your creativity and invite you to notice more deeply.

Watercolor is not just about how something looks, but how it feels. It’s about connection, memory, and presence.

“Sometimes I carry my sketchbook journal, but more often I add a sketch and narrative from memory—a wonderful way to revisit and remember.” — P. B.

“Camping, hiking, and fishing with my family over the years gave us many fond memories to treasure.” — K. W.

Let nature in. Let watercolor tell the story.

Ready to Explore Your Own Landscape in Watercolor?

What landscapes speak to your heart?

I’d love to hear from you—leave a comment below and share the places that inspire you most. Whether it’s mountains, meadows, or your own backyard, your story helps build a beautiful, creative community.

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Lemonade Lists: My New Book for Creativity and Gratitude

Cindy Briggs — Sat, 09 Aug 2025 00:06:02 +0000

Discover how daily gratitude can shift your perspective and spark creativity.

I’m so excited to share some wonderful news with you — my new book, Lemonade Lists: A Guide to Creativity and Gratitude, is now available! I co-authored this project with my creative cousin Carol Frazier, and together we’ve poured our hearts, art, and life experiences into every page.

“Lemonade Lists” artwork by Cindy Briggs, who is a Signature Member of the National (NWS) and Northwest Watercolor Societies (NWWS), as well as a Daniel Smith Watercolor Ambassador.

This book is a deeply personal journey — one that combines the healing power of art, self-reflection, and the simple yet profound practice of daily gratitude. It’s been such a joy to create, and I’m thrilled to see it already featured in Outdoor Painter and the Plein Air Today.

Why We Created Lemonade Lists

Carol and I believe that even in life’s most challenging moments, gratitude can transform how we see the world. Lemonade Lists is more than just a book — it’s a creative guide to help you rediscover your authentic voice and reclaim your inner joy.

It’s filled with uplifting reflections, my watercolor artwork, inspiring photos, and even recipes. Inside, you’ll find practical tools to:

Spark inspiration in your daily routine
Practice intentional gratitude
Embrace your creativity
Celebrate the “squeezers” in your life — those who bring out your light

Carol describes Lemonade Lists beautifully:

“The Lemonade Lists are designed to remind you of your joy, your passion, your dreams, and past miracles; and to anchor you in your appreciation of today. They are simple lists, because gratitude is simple; but they are also powerful, for it is the daily practice of gratitude and positive feelings that help us keep our personal lemonade stands open.”

What This Book Means to Me

Carol & Cindy – Authors of Lemonade Lists

Writing this book has been a gift. I’ve always believed that art and gratitude go hand in hand — when we slow down to notice beauty, whether it’s in a landscape, a brushstroke, or a kind word, we invite more joy into our lives.

As you read, I hope you’ll feel encouraged to start your own Lemonade Lists, finding little moments each day that bring sweetness and light. This is a book I hope you’ll return to often, like your favorite sketchbook or a warm cup of tea.

🎨 Ready to Start Your Own Lemonade List?

👉 Get your copy of Lemonade Lists on Amazon

Buy the Book on Amazon.

📌 Featured in Outdoor Painter and the Plein Air Today newsletter

Plein Air Today featured Cindy Briggs book Lemonade Lists: A Guide to Creativity and Gratitude

Outdoor Painter featured Cindy Briggs book Lemonade Lists: A Guide to Creativity and Gratitude

The post Lemonade Lists: My New Book for Creativity and Gratitude appeared first on Cindy Briggs Art.

As Featured in American Watercolor: Artist Spotlight on Cindy Briggs

Cindy Briggs — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 15:28:07 +0000

As Featured in American Watercolor: Artist Spotlight on Cindy Briggs

March 19, 2025

This March 18, 2025 American Watercolor Spotlight highlights her artistic journey, passion for watercolor painting and journaling, along with leading engaging workshops internationally and online. Discover what drives her creativity and how she helps others to express their artistic vision.

See Article Here.

Artist Spotlight: Cindy Briggs, NWS, NWWS

What is the best thing about being an artist?

Cindy Briggs: The best part of being an artist is discovering new places, perspectives, and subjects to paint. This year, I look forward to teaching in Belgium, Sicily, the French Alps, and along the Seine, guiding artists of all levels in watercolor journaling and painting. Traveling with watercolors offers an easy setup, allowing for spontaneous sketching and painting within minutes—or for simply taking your time and being in the moment. Whether in person or online with organizations like Smithsonian Studios and Terracotta, I create a positive, enriching learning environment.

Creativity runs in my family, and carrying forward that artistic legacy is both grounding and inspiring. Traveling to paint in Paris with my aunt in 2000 opened my eyes to the in-depth experience of painting on location and the joy of teaching. That trip shaped my path, showing me how art connects people to places and to themselves.

Since then, I’ve been leading European plein air and studio workshops and now have a wide selection of online watercolor programs. Helping students enjoy the process, build confidence, refine techniques, and develop their own style is deeply rewarding. Painting enhances the way we engage with life, and sharing that journey makes it incredibly meaningful.

Featured Artwork

Riviera View from Eze Village, France

Watercolor Journal Demonstration, 9 x 10 in., September 2024

Cindy Briggs, Riviera View from Eze Village, France, Watercolor Journal Demonstration, 9 x 10 in., September, 2024

Menton, France

Watercolor, 14 x 11 in., September 2024

April 24 & 25 – Online Terracotta.art Workshop

Cindy Briggs, Menton, France, watercolor, 14 x 11 in., September 2024; April 24, 25 Online Terracotta.art Workshop

We invite you to read the full feature on American Watercolor and explore more of Cindy’s inspiring work.

The post As Featured in American Watercolor: Artist Spotlight on Cindy Briggs appeared first on Cindy Briggs Art.

Poetic Transitions in Watercolor: Mastering the Art of Blending Colors

Cindy Briggs — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 19:12:15 +0000

Transitions in watercolor are where magic happens. They’re the graceful shifts from one color to another, from light to dark, or from hard to soft edges. These transitions are essential for bringing your paintings to life, creating depth, and adding a poetic quality to your artwork.

Why Are Transitions Important?

In watercolor, transitions convey movement, depth, and mood. Soft, seamless transitions suggest tranquility, while bold shifts add energy to your work. Like a poem, they flow naturally, drawing the viewer in with their rhythm and subtlety. Mastering these transitions allows you to evoke emotion and tell a story through your brushstrokes.

Types of Transitions in Watercolor

1. Color-to-Color Transitions

Blending one hue into another creates a vibrant and harmonious effect. A classic example is a sunset, where warm yellows and oranges melt into purples and blues, creating a seamless gradient of colors.

2. Value Transitions

Gradually shifting from light to dark helps define form and depth. This technique is especially useful for painting realistic objects, giving them a three-dimensional appearance.

3. Edge Transitions

Techniques for Smooth Transitions

1. Wet-on-Wet

One of the most fluid and natural ways to create poetic transitions in watercolor is through the wet-on-wet technique. Wet your paper first, then introduce colors to let them blend seamlessly. This technique is perfect for painting skies, water reflections, and soft backgrounds.

2. Glazing

Glazing involves applying thin, transparent layers of color, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding the next. This builds depth and creates smooth, gradual transitions.

3. Charging Colors

For richer, more dynamic transitions, try charging colors. While your base color is still wet, drop in another pigment of a thicker consistency. This technique adds depth and texture to your artwork.

Tips for Better Transitions

Timing Is Key: Work quickly with wet-on-wet techniques to avoid hard lines.
Control Your Consistency: Adjust the water-to-paint ratio to control pigment flow and blending.
Experiment with Brushes: Different brushes create unique effects. One of my favorites is the Dynasty Black Gold 311 Quill from TheBrushGuys.com. Round brushes are also excellent for experimenting with transition techniques.

Applying Transitions in Your Work

Poetry Unfolds in Watercolor

Poetic transitions in watercolor offer endless possibilities for creating mood and depth. With practice and experimentation, you can create beautiful, fluid effects that bring your paintings to life. Like crafting a poem, each painting is an opportunity to express yourself and evoke emotion through your art. As you master watercolor transitions, you’ll find inspiration in both your paintings and the transitions in life.

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Exploring Vincent Van Gogh’s Life and Legacy Through Art

Cindy Briggs — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 12:46:10 +0000

Exploring Vincent Van Gogh’s Life and Legacy Through Art

October 18, 2024

“I dream my painting and I paint my dream.” – Vincent Van Gogh

Vincent Van Gogh is one of the most celebrated artists in history, yet his life was filled with challenges and profound sadness. His works, full of vibrant colors and raw emotion, remain timeless. One interesting fact is that Van Gogh often signed his paintings simply “Vincent” because many people couldn’t pronounce his last name, which sounds like “Fan Hoh.”

After visiting the town of Auvers-sur-Oise, where Van Gogh completed over 80 paintings in just 70 days, my fascination with his life deepened. This was not my first encounter with Van Gogh’s history—I had previously visited the sanatorium in St. Remy and his famous room in Arles. However, this particular trip moved me on a deeper level and inspired me to learn more about this remarkable artist.

A Walk Through Van Gogh’s World

During my recent visit, guided by Heather Daines through French Escapade, I was fortunate enough to explore Auvers-sur-Oise, including the cornfields Van Gogh painted and his final resting place next to his beloved brother, Theo.

We visited the small, modest room where Van Gogh lived, which had a single small window set too high to look through. Holes in the walls where he hung his paintings still remain. It’s striking to witness the simplicity and the emotional weight that fills these spaces.

The church where he was denied a memorial service also stands as a reminder of his often-tormented life. Today, the church displays a large reproduction of one of Van Gogh’s paintings, honoring him in a way that was sadly absent during his lifetime.

Theresa Goesling and I were lucky enough to return to this village a second time because of two back-to-back workshop sessions. Being able to walk in Van Gogh’s footsteps and witness the very places he painted gave his story so much more depth and significance. Everywhere you turn in Auvers-sur-Oise, there are signs showing subjects Van Gogh immortalized on canvas. Each visit felt like an intimate journey into his creative process.

Films and Books on Van Gogh

There have been many tributes to Van Gogh’s life, from films to books. One of the most visually stunning tributes is the animated film Loving Vincent, a movie painted by hundreds of artists. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding Van Gogh’s artistic vision. Another notable film is an older piece starring Kirk Douglas, which I saw on a poster in a local café. Surprisingly, it’s a compelling portrayal of his life.

One of our artist guests also recommended the book The Secret Life of Sunflowers, which tells the story of Johanna van Gogh-Bonger, Vincent’s sister-in-law. Johanna played a crucial role in preserving Van Gogh’s letters and his paintings, ensuring his legacy would live on. The book is a beautiful tribute to both Johanna and Vincent, and I found it a fascinating read that deepened my appreciation for the artist’s life and the people who supported him.

How to Pronounce Van Gogh’s Name

One common question that arises when discussing Vincent Van Gogh is how to properly pronounce his last name. In Dutch, it sounds like “Fan Hoh,” which can be tricky for many to say. If you’re curious about the correct pronunciation, check out this helpful video about pronunciation that explains it in detail.

Van Gogh’s Emotional Turmoil and Artistic Genius

“If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere.” – Vincent Van Gogh

Van Gogh’s work is not just admired for its beauty, but for the raw emotion it conveys. His brushwork and subject matter reveal both joy and turmoil. He wasn’t simply seeking to depict beautiful scenes—he was sharing his truth, his vision of the world. His unique style, often misunderstood during his lifetime, is now recognized as groundbreaking.

Through his letters, we gain insight into Van Gogh’s thoughts and struggles. One poignant quote reads, “Normality is a paved road: It’s comfortable to walk, but no flowers grow on it.” These words speak volumes about Van Gogh’s outlook on life and his need to break away from conventionality. Another powerful quote that resonates with me is: “What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?” Van Gogh’s courage to pursue his art, despite constant rejection and hardship, is what makes his work so extraordinary.

As I reflect on his life and his journey, I imagine that Van Gogh would be pleased to know how much his work is appreciated today. His message, conveyed through his art, continues to inspire us, and his legacy lives on in every brushstroke.

Conclusion

Van Gogh’s life, though tragic, was filled with a passion for painting and a love of nature. His paintings are not just works of art; they are windows into his soul. His struggles, joys, and sorrows are etched into every canvas. For those who have the opportunity to visit places like Auvers-sur-Oise, St. Remy, or Arles, walking in Van Gogh’s footsteps brings a new depth of understanding to his genius.

“If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere.” – Vincent

Van Gogh’s story teaches us to find beauty in the everyday and to embrace the world around us with an open heart. As artists, as creators, or simply as lovers of art, we can draw inspiration from Van Gogh’s life and his message.

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Eugene Boudin’s Influence on Monet: A Watercolor Artist’s Perspective

Cindy Briggs — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:39:48 +0000

“All I did was look at what the universe showed me.” – Monet

I recently had the privilege of revisiting Claude Monet’s Home and Gardens, and as I walked through the space, it felt like stepping into one of his paintings. His vibrant colors, lush landscapes, and impressionistic brushstrokes immediately transported me to the world he had so carefully crafted.

Accompanied by a group of watercolor artists, I immersed myself in his life, his paintings, and his distinct vision. Monet’s artwork continues to inspire countless artists, myself included, with a timeless resonance that transcends generations.

The painting I often think about is “Monet’s Garden at Argenteuil” (1873). It encapsulates not only his technical mastery but also the beauty of simplicity. The scene, bathed in serene colors, showcases his extraordinary skill in capturing the fleeting moments of nature.

The Profound Influence of Eugene Boudin

During my recent visit to the Boudin Art Museum in Honfleur, France, I couldn’t help but reflect on Monet’s relationship with his mentor, Eugene Boudin. Boudin’s mastery over brushwork and movement in paintings of sailing ships and skies, like his piece “De Dieppe,” offers a fresh perspective that still speaks to modern artists today.

Boudin’s encouragement, point of view and brushwork inspired Monet.

Monet often credited Boudin for much of his early inspiration.

He once said, “One day Boudin said to me, ‘Learn to draw well and appreciate the sea, the light, the blue sky.’ I took his advice.”

These words resonate with me deeply as a watercolor artist. The clarity and brightness of Monet’s early works, such as the paintings of the cliffs near Étretat, showcase how his unique style gradually emerged. His early experiments remind me of the artistic process we all go through – returning to the same themes, revisiting familiar subjects, and allowing our personal voices to develop over time.

Monet’s Artistic Process: A Source of Inspiration

Just as Monet found inspiration in Boudin’s mentorship, I find that I often turn to Monet for guidance in my own work. Monet’s ability to capture peace, harmony, and light is unparalleled. Every brushstroke is a reflection of the mood of the moment, and I aim to bring that same spontaneity to my watercolors.

The cliffs of Étretat, painted by Monet in Honfleur, have inspired many of my own plein air watercolor sessions. You can view some of my work inspired by Monet’s gardens in my watercolor gallery.

I recently read the book, “Claude & Camille” by Stephanie Cowell, which delves into Monet’s life and his enduring connection to Honfleur. Understanding his artistic struggles and evolution only deepens my respect for him. His journey as an artist wasn’t easy – it was filled with hardship, experimentation, and an unyielding pursuit of his vision.

Monet enjoyed getting away to Honfleur and painting the cliffs of Eretat, you can read about his life in the book, “Claude & Camille“ by Stephanie Cowell.

In my watercolor classes, I often share how revisiting and reinterpreting the same subject repeatedly can be a powerful exercise in developing one’s artistic style. You can explore more in my online watercolor programs, where I offer step-by-step guidance. Much like Monet, who painted the same gardens and landscapes in different lights and seasons, this practice can lead to a deeper connection with the subject.

Monet’s Gardens: Bridging Past and Present

In one of my recent watercolor journaling sessions, I took inspiration from Monet’s garden paintings, specifically a white bridge he painted. Rather than the typical green or blue, I chose to portray it in soft pastels, capturing the way the light played on the bridge in that moment. These kinds of creative decisions help me keep my work dynamic and fresh, while still honoring the influence of masters like Monet and Boudin.

As I teach watercolor workshops across the U.S. and Europe, from the Smithsonian Art Studios to the University of Utah, I often reflect on these artistic journeys. Whether it’s through online programs, plein air painting sessions, or art journaling, I strive to share my passion for watercolor and encourage my students to find their own creative voices, just as Monet did with Boudin’s guidance.

Monet’s legacy continues to inspire artists everywhere, and his work will always be a wellspring of inspiration for me.

Conclusion

Monet’s artistic journey was profoundly shaped by Eugene Boudin, and as an artist, I continue to find endless inspiration in Monet’s use of color, light, and emotion. Whether I’m teaching watercolor workshops or painting en plein air, the lessons of these great artists echo in every brushstroke. I encourage my students to explore their own creative potential, drawing inspiration from masters like Monet while developing their unique artistic style.

With every expressive brushstroke, as I seek to capture the colors, the interplay of light, and the momentary moods of the scene, the sparkle of light, Monet remains a deep inspiration in my heart. — Cindy Briggs

FAQs:

1. What watercolor techniques did Monet use?

Monet used techniques such as wet-on-wet, layering, and dry brush to capture light and color, techniques that inspire my watercolor practices as well.

2. How did Eugene Boudin influence Monet?

Boudin was Monet’s early mentor, encouraging him to focus on natural landscapes, the sea, and sky, which shaped Monet’s iconic impressionistic style.

3. Where can I take watercolor workshops with Cindy Briggs?

You can join me for online, plein air, and studio watercolor workshops across the U.S. and Europe. I also teach at prestigious institutions like the Smithsonian and the University of Utah.

4. What are plein air watercolor workshops?

Plein air watercolor workshops involve painting outdoors, capturing the natural beauty of landscapes, skies, and light in real time.

5. How can I develop my own watercolor style?

Like Monet, revisit subjects that inspire you, experiment with light and color, and practice regularly to refine your unique artistic voice.

Need Your Supplies?

Want to recreate the magic of these monochromatic watercolors? Grab your supplies and let’s get started! To help you gather everything you need, I’ve put together a handy supply list.

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One Color, Endless Possibilities: The Art of Monochromatic Watercolor Painting

Cindy Briggs — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 04:47:21 +0000

Have you ever wondered if you could create a stunning painting using just one color? It might seem like a limitation, but monochromatic watercolor studies offer a surprising range of benefits for artists of all skill levels.

My favorite color for a monochromatic painting is “Permanent Brown” by Daniel Smith Watercolors.

From my palette of colors, Permanent Brown is an ideal choice for monochromatic studies. Its rich tones evoke the warmth and nostalgia of sepia-toned photographs. Unlike stark black and white or full-color palettes, Permanent Brown adds a subtle dimension, allowing your subject to shine through with a timeless feel. Colors like Burnt Siena, Burnt Umber or even colors like Cobalt Blue or Violet will work too.

Benefits of Monochromatic Watercolor Studies:

1. Master Watercolor Consistency.

Monochromatic painting hones your skills in value control, layering techniques, and brushwork. By focusing on a single color, you learn to manage the consistency of your paint — how much water and how much paint — giving you more control to create a range of values showing depth, form, texture, light and shadow.

2. Boost Confidence.

Starting with a smaller, one-color value painting can help you become familiar with your subject and refine your design. You don’t have to think about colors, you focus on values only. If it works in one color you are more prepared to paint it in full colors.

3. Planning for Success.

A monochromatic study acts as a blueprint for a future full-color painting. You can use it to experiment with composition, value placement, and lighting effects, ensuring your final piece is harmonious and impactful.

The Power of Practice:

I often create small, 3-inch square monochromatic studies using Permanent Brown from Daniel Smith’s Extra Fine Watercolor line. These quick studies are a fantastic way to warm up, practice techniques and refine my approach before moving on to a larger work.

Ready to Explore?

Intrigued by the idea of monochromatic watercolors? Why not try it yourself? Choose your preferred color and try a range of subjects. In the comments below, share your favorite color for monochromatic studies and how the experience feels for you.

Need Your Supplies?

Want to recreate the magic of these monochromatic watercolors? Grab your supplies and let’s get started! To help you gather everything you need, I’ve put together a handy supply list.

The post One Color, Endless Possibilities: The Art of Monochromatic Watercolor Painting appeared first on Cindy Briggs Art.

Exploring Nature Inside and Out: Teaching Watercolors at the Smithsonian Art Studios

Cindy Briggs — Sun, 14 Apr 2024 11:14:11 +0000

Nestled within the vibrant cultural tapestry of Washington, D.C., the Smithsonian Institution stands as a beacon of inspiration, education, and creativity. Within its hallowed halls, the Smithsonian Studio Arts Program offers a diverse array of artistic opportunities, inviting participants to explore their creative potential through hands-on instruction and immersive experiences. As a 4 year watercolor instructor for the Smithsonian Associate, I have had the privilege of guiding students on a journey of discovery, expression, and artistic growth online and now in the Smithsonian Associates Art Studio.

Teaching watercolors at the Smithsonian Art Studios is a truly enriching experience. United by a shared passion for creativity and a desire to learn, I brought my love of the Utah Canyonlands and Zion National Park into the studio. Artists explored techniques, embraced experimentation and painted the dramatic stone cathedral landscapes with flowing colors. The studio is a sanctuary of creativity, where individuals come together to celebrate their shared love of art and to reach new heights of artistic excellence.

Through the act of creation, we connect with ourselves, with each other, and with the world around us. In teaching watercolors for the Smithsonian Studio Arts Program, I am honored to play a part in this transformative journey, both online and in the studio.

Following my March 2024 workshop, I was grateful to have some time to explore the National Mall and discover an abundance of the iconic cherry blossoms. This cherry blossom season timing was a miracle for me.

With the fleeting beauty and timeless allure, the cherry blossoms serve as the perfect muse for more watercolor workshops in my “All About Watercolors” online program and with Terracotta.art this Spring. Every time I travel, my eyes and heart are open for potential subjects to teach, often I feel led to each topic as a gift.

This scene is in Pienza, one of my favorite locations in Tuscany.

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How to Capture the Sky with Watercolor Painting

Cindy Briggs — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 06:29:27 +0000

Do you like looking outside and seeing what the sky offers? We awake to a blue sky, and we celebrate a sunny day. A partly cloudy sky provides us with a delightful gallery of shapes and colors as the day progresses. Fleeting moments can be captured with your paintbrush or your camera to paint later on. Watercolors are a wonderful way to capture the ever-changing sky. Each time you paint a sky, the experience will be unique, unpredictable, and so worthwhile.

Three Tips for Painting Skies:

1. Your paper is key.

I use Fabriano 140# Cold Press 100% Cotton paper. This paper has sizing on it that makes it easier to mingle and move the color around. It also is easier to lift color. I use Daniel Smith Extra Fine Watercolors for consistency of color. Remember, it’s easier to use watercolor that has been squeezed into your palette and thoroughly dried before painting.

2. The easiest way to paint a sky is to paint wet-in-wet.

Brush water onto your sky area, covering it completely, then quickly paint your blues — I like Cobalt Blue mixed with Phthalo Blue-Green Shade — and other chosen colors around the cloud shapes, saving the whites. This goes quickly and creates soft edges throughout.

3. Painting Cumulus Clouds

For Cumulus Clouds, I paint wet-on-dry, painting the sky color around the clouds and softening the hard edges now and then. Then, I add a shadow at the lower edge of the cloud, usually a gray mix of Permanent Brown & Blue, and then I drop a touch of Peach — Naples Yellow & Pyrrole Orange — in the clouds for warmth.

The key is to get in and get out. You’ll be tempted to keep brushing into your sky. However, the less you mess with it, the better it gets. Let the watercolor do its thing, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

🌟 Want to practice your sky watercolor painting skills at home? Download our free PDF with my sky painting image that you can print and use for your practice sessions! Get your copy below.

Three Tips for Fixing Your Sky:

If you paint your sky and immediately don’t like it, you can rinse it off, let your paper dry, and then try again.
If your sky is too light when it dries, you can wet the sky again and reapply paint.
If you have a lot of hard edges and some unwanted blossoms, you can gently lift them with a thirsty brush. Dip your brush into clean water and lightly squeeze out water with a dry paper towel. You can lift the color by gently applying your thirsty brush to desired areas and then dab with a paper towel. Doing this takes practice and is useful for almost any subject.

If you want to build confidence in painting skies, try painting a sky a day for a week. Or pick a skyscape and paint it three times in one day. You’ll discover what works for you and what doesn’t. Most of all, let go of expectations and be open to surprises each time. Enjoy!

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