This past weekend, I had the privilege of showcasing my work at a Holiday Art Market at the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum, an opportunity that felt deeply synchronistic.
A friend of mine, who was unable to attend this juried event, graciously connected me with the museum, and I was invited to participate in her place. With just a few days to prepare—and much of my art having been damaged in the flood caused by Hurricane Helene—I gathered what I could to create a meaningful display.
What made this experience even more special was the museum’s generous gift to the arts community. Not only were we spared an entry fee, but the museum allowed us to keep 100% of our sales. This heartfelt gesture created a beautiful space for connection between artists and the community, and I couldn’t have been more grateful to share my watercolor art in such a supportive environment.
“After the Storm”: A Story of Resilience
One particularly moving moment came when a visitor purchased my painting titled “After the Storm.” She shared that she never buys art or makes impulsive purchases at events like this, but something about this piece spoke deeply to her. She said it reminded her of cherished memories and brought her a profound sense of serenity.
I painted “After the Storm” in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated the community here in the Western North Carolina mountains. With so much loss around me, I turned to my art as a way to process the overwhelming emotions I was feeling. I had no intention of creating a masterpiece—I just needed to paint.
This painting captures a moody yet hopeful scene of mountains and light breaking through the mist. It’s a reflection of finding calm after chaos, and hearing how it resonated with someone reminded me of the power art has to connect us through shared experiences.
“Dancing Poppies”: Vitality and Spirit”
Another standout piece from the market was “Dancing Poppies.” I’ve been drawn to painting poppies for years, captivated by their vibrant energy and delicate yet dynamic forms. On an esoteric level, poppies symbolize imagination, peace, and remembrance. They remind us to honor the past while embracing the present moment with vitality and spirit.
In “Dancing Poppies,” I sought to capture the joy and movement of these flowers. The bright red blooms seem to sway with life, set against a soft, ethereal background that feels almost dreamlike. For me, this piece celebrates nature’s beauty and serves as a reminder to find inspiration in the simplicity of the world around us.
Watercolor as a Teacher in Art and Life
Watercolor painting has taught me to let go of control and embrace imperfection, lessons that extend far beyond the canvas. Its fluid and unpredictable nature mirrors the ebb and flow of life, reminding me to stay present and trust the process.
Pieces like “After the Storm” and “Dancing Poppies” embody this philosophy. Whether I’m painting vibrant flowers or serene landscapes, I find myself drawn to the interplay of light, shadow, and emotion—elements that reflect both the beauty of nature and the art of living.
Looking Ahead
This season, I am inspired to continue exploring minimalism in my art. The Holiday Art Market reminded me of the power of connection—both with nature and with others—and how art can serve as a bridge between the two. Through my work, I hope to offer others a sense of mindfulness, calm, and inspiration.
If you’d like to bring a piece of mindfulness and nature into your space, explore my latest watercolor landscapes and ethereal mountain art here.
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