a year of paint parties!

I don't always take part in Paint Party Friday. Sometimes because I'm not painting and sometimes because I don't have time to write a Friday painting post or to visit the other partying bloggers. But it does make me happy that a year later I'm still painting and still joining in when I can. It really helps to have that support and encouragement. And all of the inspiration of seeing what other artists are creating. Each person has a unique vision and style. And everyone has been encouraging, supportive and kind. In the beginning of my painting adventure I was filled with fears. It's interesting to remember that, because now the fear is gone. It doesn't mean that I don't get frustrated and that I'm not critical of my paintings, but the act of painting itself doesn't hold the fear that it did when I first started. I hadn't even really realized that.

So, here's a big thank you to everyone who's accompanied me on this adventure. For the encouragement and kind words and thoughtful suggestions. I appreciate it all! And to Eva and Kristin, for daring to imagine a place where painting can be encouraged and celebrated, thank you and congratulations! Your little seed of an idea sprouted, grew and is flourishing! Thank you for your vision and your courage and all of your hard work.

On to my paintings!  All works in progress this week.












Yes, crazy dark Instagram photos.  Someday I'll get sick of using that app for my photo taking.  But it gives you an idea of what I've been up to.  And this, too:




I usually don't like to do a Paint Party Friday post if I'm not going to have time to party with everyone, but because it's the anniversary party this week I didn't want to miss out entirely. Technically, I am missing out.  I'll be away from my computer till next week while I'm out of town for a girls' weekend (much excited about that!). I'll try to visit everyone when I get back.

On this side of the year of PPF, I realize how important it has been to face my fears. To take out my brushes and paints. If there's something that you're not doing because you're afraid or uncertain or intimidated, I say, go for it. A year from now you'll be glad you did.

And don't forget that there's still time to sign up for my Handmade Joy exchange.  The exchanged is now closed. Thank you to everyone who signed up!! I've had a great response so far and I'm really excited about it!

Comments

  1. You're doing very well with you watercolor work. Well Done!

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  2. It´s been a pleasure to see you bloom in your art this year. :)

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  3. This is a great post ~ love to see WIPs ~ lovely ~~thanks, namaste, carol (A Creative Harbor) Happy weekend ^_^

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  4. It's impossible for most of us to get around everyone each week. I don't think you should miss out just because you're away - cause then we miss seeing your lovely art!

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  5. some very pretty work today! oooh, i love the softness of your watercolor!
    Enjoy your girls weekend!
    xo

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  6. You are working hard and very nice. Saludos

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  7. Nice work. I have instagram but I haven't figured out how to use it yet...go figure...lol no surprise when it comes to me and apps!

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  8. Beautiful watercolors! It's very nice to see your process. Have a great week!

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  9. those watercolours make me so happy... I love botanicals and you really nail the fresh strong colours that I love...xx

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  10. It['s been great seeing your watercolors evolve over the year. Your work is beautiful!! Happy PPF Anniversary!

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  11. Anne, Thank you for your kind words! You brought tears to my eyes.

    These are off to a great start! Have tons of fun with your girlfriends!

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  12. Oh Anne,

    It has been an absolute honor and pleasure to watch you grow more confident in your painting! You have blossomed before our very eyes :)

    Thank you so much for this beautiful post and for continuing to share your journey with us!

    Have a great girls weekend!!!

    xo
    Kristin

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  13. Wonderful works in progress.
    I really enjoy seeing the process.
    My favorite is the last painting with all its range of values!
    ♥♥♥
    Happy PPF!!
    Mary
    Mixed-Media Map Art

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  14. Beautiful work. Will look forward to more as I dip my brushes in water too.

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  15. Your work is wonderful. Isn't it amazing how sharing with a group of artists inspires you to keep creating. :) Happy PPF! Helen @ Natures Walk.

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  16. o how fun! a girls weekend!! i treasure those being that i live with boys...love your paintings!! h appy PPF!

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  17. Oh, I love these new blossoms you've started! Hasn't it been fun to see so many people's work grow and change this past year? Hope you have a great time with your girlfriends.

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  18. Lovely post Anne. You have quite a array of water colors on the go and that cyclamen promises to be a beauty when your done, already adoring the design and color of the leaves. All your work is great stuff.
    Have a fun weekend..
    Xxx Annabelle

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  19. Yay..such gorgeous work...beautiful blooms....and lovely words of inspiration you have shared about your wonderful journey! Yay..shine on and keep shining! I love visiting you and your beautiful art!
    Victoria

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  20. What lovely paintings and a nice tribute to the inspiring ladies of Paint Party Friday. Your artwork has such delicate realism. I appreciate your reminder to push past our fears - its just a speed bump, not a mountain. Keep up the good work!

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  21. Dearest sweet anne, i always enjoy your gorgeous blooms and seeing how they come to life is just so inspiring! It's wonderful to read and see how your creative journal has bloom and i am a 100% with you. :) It is so very important for all of us to be supportive of one another. We can all succeed together! Have a lovely merry happy sunday and love to you!

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  22. Hi!!
    I just find your blog and shop!!
    You're really clever and creative!!!
    I like crocheting, too...you're really inspiring!!
    Greetings.
    Laura

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  23. Lovely watercolor starts, so pretty and delicate! <3

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  24. These are all beautiful, I just love your fluid style, excellent work! Deb

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  25. I love your process. These are lovely
    Nicole/Beadwright

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  26. I love your pieces. Yes it,s been a year of lots of creativity and fun. Love your work and hope to see you more often on PPF. Tahe care.

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  27. Anne, welcome back from your exciting weekend. Your paintings/WIP are fabulous. They help me to know the process of doing watercolors. I had some classes but I've forgotten so much. Your work is beautiful.

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  28. Hi Anne,
    This was a lovely post. Everything about your blog is so calm and peaceful. Thank you for sharing all of your works in progress. Each one is so pretty. I too have found the support and encouragement from PPF so helpful.

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  29. And they are all fantastic! :) Would love to see them finished.

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  30. Love to see your work in progress... and process! I know what you mean about no time to do everything, and about needing to "just do it"!

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  31. The works in progress are great. I hope to participate at some point.

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  32. These are gorgeous, Anne! Such beautiful color so far!

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