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Last year, author Freya Pickard and I had another collaboration. She wanted me to create a series of illustrations for her newsletter and Pure Haiku for 2022. The first one was a volcano for Pure Haiku. She wanted the left side to be grassy, with flowers blooming and a dormant volcano, while the right side is a dark sky and lava pouring from an erupted volcano. I lightly sketched the elements and created a dividing line. I used watercolor to … Read More

I have always wanted to sketch using a fountain pen. Searching for the best fountain pen is personal and unique to the users’ needs. I like the flexible nib since I can create thick and lines like using a calligraphy pen. In this video, I shared a review of the Noodler’s Ahab fountain pen, how to refill ink, what ink you can use, how long the ink dries depending on the type of paper you use, mark-making, sketching, and the … Read More

I got a bunch of fresh lavender flowers at the grocery store. They are my absolute favorite flowers. I’m not sure what to do with it except to savor the lovely scent and make some art. I enjoyed slow sketching and looking at the little details, done on a small handbound sketchbook made from watercolor paper.   Then, of course, I had to do some printmaking. I decided to make some prints by drawing the lavender, transferring it on a … Read More

I’ve been interested in printmaking lately, mainly because I’m taking my Master’s, and one of the studio electives I’ve chosen is Printmaking. I like its unpredictability, and it encourages me to think outside of the box. Monoprint is a form of printmaking where you can create only one print from your design. In the first video, I show you how to create a monoprint using the lining from a bag of chips.   In the second video, I show you … Read More

I’ve been curious about intaglio, and when I saw Intaglio Printing Without a Press: Tetra Pak Collagraph by Handprinted, I just had to try it.   According to Handprinted, “Drypoint is an intaglio printmaking method that involves scratching an image into a plate with a pointed tool. These lines create a burr that holds ink that reveals the drawing. It is the opposite of relief printmaking as it is the sunken areas of the plate that print rather than the … Read More

Author Freya Pickard is working on another story called Arturina. She wanted a picture to portray a space opera. Like the previous collaboration, she gave me free rein to draw whatever that inspires me from her collections of Pinterest images. I chose the chameleon because its skin looks interesting to paint! Freya said that the chameleon in her story is a slippery one because it changes its shape a lot and he cannot remember his original form! He is both … Read More

Author Freya Pickard needs a picture to portray a character in her novel Hrukham. I’m excited for another collaboration with this creative writer. I checked her collection of inspiration over on her Pinterest board and decided on a sunset grassland image. Freya shared that the image depicts the grassland of the southern plains. They are verdant and filled with life, but, from beyond their borders, an evil threatens that kills and maims and poisons the land. I’m sharing my process … Read More

The author Freya Pickard and I had another collaboration. For her Dragonscale Clippings, she wanted me to illustrate Parsley who has long, reddish hair in ringlets, green eyes, and pale skin. She is looking annoyed with her hands on her hips. Writing down the specification helps organize my thoughts. I did some research and roughly sketched Parsley and a variation of her annoyed facial expressions. I transferred the ideas into watercolor paper. I enjoyed painting the different shades of greens … Read More

The author, Freya Pickard wanted me to create an image for her Pure Haiku website (where she publishes her own + other peoples’ traditional haiku). She wanted a female character, possibly a goddess or angel. She is fire and water, ice and electricity. There will be lots of bright colors, energy and swirling lines. She is dancing and turning about. I began to write down the guidelines on a notebook. I checked Freya’s Pinterest board for inspiration and did additional … Read More

One artist shared that art is a wonderful way to express “stuff” that is so hard to put into words. Sometimes there’s no words to describe how we feel or express how beautiful something is. Making memories through art helps us to share the beauty of what we have savoured with others. Whether it’s sketching, painting, making collage, writing… I think art helps us process life in a profound way. This August, we have 17 artists participating in 11 countries … Read More

What an awesome July gallery! We have 13 artists participating from 10 countries around the world. I’m so thankful for this small group of wonderful artists whom I get to know through their art and stories. I’m inspired to witness their creative journey–learning by taking creative risks, using their imagination, infusing their artworks with their own personal styles and sharing milestones of their lives. There’s so much richness in this hashtag #rekindlememories over at Instagram. Some artists still continue to … Read More

I was struck by what Kay said about Rekindle Memories– that she wants a hard copy of her memories. Sometimes, I wonder out loud… what would I do with all the finished sketchbooks? There’s not enough space. Going digital is the way, right? But there’s something comforting about holding a pen and a sketchbook. The vivid details are remembered fully. Memories become richer and alive. It’s worth it, isn’t it? Here’s June gallery and stories for you..with some of my … Read More

As I gather the precious memories shared by these artists, I can’t help but admire the distinct style of each of their artworks. I also notice how most of them visited each other’s pages on Instagram (#rekindlememories) and gave encouraging feedback. So instead of repeating the stories shared by the artists from Instagram to this blogpost, I will write my impressions on how each of the memories have touched me (and others). I’m immensely thankful for each of their invaluable … Read More

My sister Ema said that Rekindle Memories is a great avenue to share art works with people that means a lot personally. Her words warm my heart, and may I add that it’s such a treat to see the variety of themes in this April’s roundup! From creative illustrations to the beauty of nature, to architecture and sketches of one’s life– you guys are a source of inspiration! Enjoy April’s gallery and stories! Dominik; Germany Happy Easter! Those colorful eggs are a nice … Read More

One friend said that Rekindle Memories is making her record happy times on paper… Making memories come alive by sketching and painting them not only make us rekindle the happy old times but it also forge new memories as we notice one thing today that captures our interest. What a way to savor and be grateful for each moment, don’t you think? Making art depends upon noticing things– things about yourself, your methods, your subject matter. Sooner or later, for instance, every visual artist notices … Read More

When I read about the One Week 100 People challenge, I felt the excitement of a real challenge and of drawing people (one of my favorite subjects to sketch). I decided to join, brushing aside the uncertainty whether I will be able to accomplish this huge feat or not. The Process Behind the Challenge Sunday (Monday): That weekend came and there was a Chinese New Year parade. I knew there’s plenty of opportunities to sketch some people. I was a bit … Read More

Collaborating with an author who writes imaginative stories challenges my creativity. I know I have said this numerous times before but I’m thankful to Freya for this opportunity to create artworks that I have not dared myself to create. I think that’s one great thing about working with someone from a different creative field. Freya Pickard wanted me to create an eerie, sinister feeling of a painting, because that’s how the characters were right from the beginning of the story. They were at the … Read More

“Thank goodness for Elisa’s 7 day challenges“, said one artist friend about Rekindle Memories. Her statement made me think that yes, Rekindle Memories is not just about sketching, painting and sharing our wonderful memories but it’s also an opportunity to try a new medium, to sketch and paint something out of our comfort zone and most of all to learn and enjoy the process of creating art. What better way than to make art together with other artists from around the world? Without … Read More

What a great way to start the New Year—rekindling memories through sketching and painting! I enjoyed reading and compiling all the beautiful memories created by the amazing artists across 6 countries around the world. I appreciate the variety of styles and story telling, the learning and the inspiration brought about by the memories of a person, place, thing or event. I hope you’ll enjoy the January gallery and stories, and visit the sites of these artists to show some love and support! Janet; USA Surf … Read More

Airplant; watercolor on paper Most of us have written goals that will guide us on what we need to focus on for the New Year. I have written faith goals that I am believing and partnering with God for. I also themed my days according to what work I need to focus on (i.e. Mondays are for planning, Tuesdays for recording). However, our pastor said that every goals or New Year resolutions fail by the third of the month because of formed … Read More

Memories come alive when we sketch, paint or create something out of it (i.e. collage, video montage). I am so thankful to witness each of your memories–celebrating the different stages of life through your art. Thankful to be part of this small community of artists who continue to inspire and encourage. I am excited to see more of you join and be part of Rekindle Memories. Please enjoy the December stories and gallery and leave some love to the artists! Virginia; Canada I … Read More

Smita, one of the participants in Rekindle Memories said, “This challenge gives us a chance to think about life’s manifold blessings.” Such an inspiring statement that resonates on why we are doing this challenge in the first place– to remember and appreciate life in all its wonder and beauty through sketching and painting wherever we are in the world. I am so grateful for all of you (in 6 different countries!) and your wonderful memories that you share every month. May you enjoy this month’s gallery and stories. … Read More

I felt a little closer to the artists who shared snippets of their lives through sketches and paintings. The stories that accompanied the art made me visualize what they have experienced in the other side of the world. Please enjoy the October collection of artworks and stories that rekindles so many wonderful memories. I’m thankful for this small community of artists who support this tiny endeavor and make it so meaningful. Susan; Canada The autumn leaves rekindles memories of walks in the woods around … Read More

Sketching our memories, Past or present,  Painful or joyful, We learn and ponder, We cry and laugh, We appreciate and notice. The drawn and painted memories, The stories shared around the world, Connect our hearts to each other, To pray, inspire, encourage. So thankful for these group of artists who shared a part of their wonderful memories through sketching and painting. Please enjoy their art and stories, and visit their art pages for more inspiration. :) Melanie; New Zealand WSA Artspost galleries … Read More

I love how sketching allows us to slow down even when time flies! On the first week of August, 7 artists from 5 different countries around the world shared parts of their lives through sketches and paintings. I’m excited to share their artworks and stories with you, with the intention that you will be inspired to savor your life by making art. Carolyn; USA Rekindle memories. Amazing how many memories revolve around food. This is my rhubarb patch. Delicious memories … Read More

On the first week of July, 7 artists from 4 different countries participated in the Rekindle Memories where they sketched/ painted their lives, and savoured the moment that captured their interest. I love the sense of connection that art brings. I enjoyed the heart warming stories that accompanied each artwork. What a pleasure it is to be able to take part in someone else’s memories. Please enjoy the sketches and paintings from these amazing artists!   Rekindle Memories will happen again on the … Read More

Locals chatting during breakfast in Sapa, Vietnam Recently, an artist commented that my sketches were loose and energetic. She said that she likes to sketch but often get caught up with perfection rather than capturing a moment. I told her to sketch with a pen. Once she use it, she will realize that the marks she make will (obviously!) be permanent. Her brain will force the eyes to see better in order to express better. She will learn to appreciate the wobbly line that adds character to the picture. She will savour the … Read More

I love the diversity of artists from around the world who have participated in the Postcard to Inspire Swap from January to February 2017. Their sketches and paintings of their lives were accompanied with stories that gave a glimpse of their lives and culture. I like the different subjects ranging from nature, architecture, people, places, food and animals. I hope they enjoy getting to know one another through art! I am delighted to share with you the wonderful postcard gallery from 10 (wow!) different countries. … Read More

As much as I like sketching in pen, sometimes I find the freedom of not doing any initial sketch and just diving right in with watercolor. It’s the same feeling that my young learners have whenever I will ask them to outline their penciled drawings with marker. They mostly feel daunted by the task because they prefer to just go and paint. I remembered when I was just starting out, I would draw directly with watercolor. It doesn’t matter if the output looks … Read More

Late January, around 11 artists participated in the Sketch Your Life 2 Workshop where they sketched and painted their lives for 30 days. From beginner to experienced artists, they all have something in common– to savor their lives through sketching and painting and to be better artist by making art daily and often. I am so inspired by their progress and enthusiasm, and learned a lot about their culture through art and stories. It is my delight to share with you the … Read More

watercolor on paper Creativity takes courage, as the famous old master, Henri Matisse said. I believe creativity is to make something that I have never done or tried before. To nurture creativity would mean not only looking inward– into my ideas and imagination, but also outward–creation of God and man made words, ideas and things. It also helps not to hang out too much at the online sphere, lest the creativity will die–at least for me. Freya Pickard‘s words feed my … Read More

Painting on bed Savoring each moment. That’s what I love most when I slow down and make time to sketch and paint the life around me. Last weekend morning, I woke up a little earlier and watched my husband sleeping peacefully by my side. Instinctively, I traced the contour of his face with my eyes and said to myself, you know what, I am going to sketch and paint him. Gingerly, I grabbed my sketchbook and pen. There were many imperfections–the other arm … Read More

A wonderful 2017 to you all! Last holiday, I enjoyed moments spent with loved ones. Aside from eating delicious food, playing board games and watching movies, we also made art. I set the table for a painting session with the nieces of my husband, ages 4 and 6 years old. “What are we going to paint?” they asked excitedly. I quickly look around the table and suggested we paint the coffee cups design of the table cover. They agreed. And … Read More

The restaurant was packed with people. As the waiter ushered us toward our table in the middle, with strangers in front of me, on the side and basically every corner, my heart did a nervous dance. Am I really going to paint in the midst of all these people?! Can I just do the demo at home instead of doing it in public? Husband encouraged me that whatever I will be doing, people wouldn’t mind. The voices in my head never stop whispering fear … Read More

Well, I was only able to accomplish 15 artworks for Nanodrawmo. Not even half of the goal of 50. But this challenge has rekindled me to make something everyday. Surely I may not be able to sketch everyday (or often) but I press on to create something…anything (!) with my hands. That could mean writing letters, making paper brooch, painting, crafting… So many ways to be productive. Because when you don’t attempt to create one thing often, the following might happen … Read More

I have never written letters on behalf of strangers before. I was so excited to hear about Snail Mail My Email (SMME) which “is a worldwide community art project where volunteers handwrite strangers’ emails and send physical letters to the intended recipients, free of charge.” This is their 6 and last year running it and I am thankful to be a part of this endeavor as a Letter Artist. Last week, SMME invited people around the world for email submission. … Read More

Pear; watercolor on paper I think I have never completed any Nanodrawmo challenges before. But it is always good to join and try again! The challenge: 50 artworks produced over thirty days. It seems a lot but I’m not going to stress myself with that. This month, I will be sketching my life mostly in watercolor (with the occasional use of pen). For this sketch, I set up a pear still life. I begin from the stem using the tip of … Read More

Freya, a good friend of mine, launched her first poetry collection called Insides. She is a cancer survivor currently awaiting the final all clear. She wrote Insides as a kind of therapy to help her embrace the terrible things she endured; cancer, surgery and chemotherapy. She wanted to bring comfort to other cancer sufferers as well as enabling people with no experience of cancer at all, to understand a little of what it means to go through such an ordeal. … Read More

Whatever things I own or receive, whether used, gifts or even junk mails, I always ask myself: how can I make the best use of it? I bought a present for a dear friend’s birthday and I was thinking what material to wrap it with because I am not a fan of buying gift wrapper. Suddenly, in a spur of inspiration, I thought of painting the pages of a catalogue and turning it into an awesome gift wrapper. Hooray! The materials you need are: Any … Read More

Eiffel Tower Painting in acrylic by a 7 yr old artist “Oh no, I have blobs of black paint on the sky!” Previously, I would have been frustrated by my student’s lack of focus. I would have reprimanded her carelessness and utter many words of do’s and don’ts. I would have thought of ways to remove or cover the black blob, perhaps asking her to repaint a portion of that sunset sky… That was my old “trying to be firm with my students” … Read More

Creativity is such an important aspect in making art–a precious ingredient in making our artworks unique and personal to who we are as an artist. Honestly, creativity is something that I have struggled (a lot!) because of a variety of reasons like criticism and comparison. Nourishing my creativity back to life is a work in progress and I am thankful for each moment that I am given to create for the glory of God. When I see my younger students struggling with … Read More

“Lady Eating” ink on sketchbook Taking photos is something that I would instinctively do whenever I see something that captures my attention. Maybe because it’s faster than sketching and I can easily move on to whatever I need to do or go next. However, if I carve out a time, I can grab a sketchbook and pen to savor the moment more. If you haven’t tried sketching your life before, I wish to encourage you that it is good for you because… it enables you to … Read More

Telunas Beach Indonesia (watercolor and pen on paper) Creativity is about making time to create something meaningful. Children are one of the most creative people that I know. They think of ideas, try them out and get their hands dirty. They create from a place that is full of wonder and joy. The truth: we are all creative because God is creative. However, it slowly began to diminish the moment we get affected by criticism and lack of support, consume too much media, … Read More

photo by Art of Education Everyday I desire to be a better teacher. After a (tiring) day of facing kids–guiding them on how to draw and paint and nurturing their creativity, I give thanks to the Lord for his grace in this work, and think about how and what to improve next. I stumbled upon the Art of Education a year ago when I started teaching. It’s a rich resource for Art Teachers. They also host online conferences that provide Art Teachers … Read More

I have never felt so close to the waves crashing beneath the plank wood floor and its sound echoing around the four walls of the stilt hut. I felt so near the sea. I have never walked along the shore during low tide and witnessed many crabs migrate their way home. Whenever I looked at this sketch, I remember the time when I was at our room’s balcony…inhaling the salty air while sketching furiously. I was scared of the sea yet I like being near it.  Time at … Read More

I can attest that sketching from life is challenging (especially using a pen!) yet very rewarding. I don’t think about making my sketches perfect or else I might as well feel intimidated of even starting at all. All I care about is the experience of savouring the life around me and the tremendous learning that happens whenever I step out in faith to do something that undoubtedly scares me (at first) but by the grace of God I am strengthen to do whatever … Read More

In its short span of life, a flower gives it all– beauty, colors, fragrance, decoration, accessory, food, medicine, wonder. I had the pleasure of sketching it up close, observing and beholding while the orchid lasts. The life of a flower reminds me of Jesus when He was living on earth. How short His life was yet He left us with an eternal impact. As His Holy Spirit lives in the hearts of God’s children, may we live a life worthy of the calling God … Read More

Like a child filled with excitement and awe at the sight of toys and candies, I had the same feeling when I first stepped inside the National Orchid Garden in Singapore. Different species of orchids graced the garden, along with hundreds of other flowers, herbs and succulent plants. I admire this one particular orchid with bright purple color and white spots. Sketching it on location made me appreciate its beauty more.  

Every time I look at the sketches of my students I get a glimpse of their lives, the process on how they create art and a feeling of connection with them no matter the distance and the differences. I present to you the third batch of artists sketching their lives. There is a part 4 coming up in a couple of weeks. If you miss the previous galleries, please see part 1 and part 2.  

I like accessories especially the handmade with artwork. Previously, I bought quite a lot of earrings and rings and necklaces with artsy statements on it. However, nothing beats creating my own. When this class was shown, I was excited to finally start making some wearable art… a simple one like the paper brooch. Following the tutorial, this is how I create my own rose paper brooch. You will need: watercolor paper or cardstock for your design any kind of mediums you … Read More

It can be a little frustrating if the paper cannot handle the watercolor well. I have to wait in between layers to dry. The apple seemed to be waiting as well… World Watercolor Month  

Loving and serving others need grace. I glanced at the small pile of dirty dishes on the sink and the occasional spill of softdrink on the floor… it made me cringe that I have to clean the mess of someone else. Someone who is old and stubborn. Someone whose hands shake, thus the spill. Someone who isn’t related to me and who doesn’t even know my name. Why do I have to do these again? I remembered Jesus who lived the … Read More

I still feel uncomfortable sketching in public especially in crowded places. People passing by looking over their shoulders to see what I’m doing. I think the owner of the fruit stall (where I was sketching) was wary of me doing some kind of a detective work. He approached me and asked what I’m doing, to which I smiled and showed him the sketch. He beamed back and went on about his business… I will keep going. World Watercolor Month  

These second batch of artists inspire me a lot because they have managed to sketch their lives for a month despite how they feel, no matter how busy their lives were. They never give up and they keep going. Their stories are inspirational and chock full of interesting tidbits about themselves. Their works are unique and personal. Their enthusiasm to learn is contagious. Come and enjoy these sketches!     See part 1 here. Stay tuned for part 3! Come and join us … Read More

In light with the Singapore Heritage Fest, there is a call for exhibition in collaboration with the National Museum and Urban Sketchers Singapore to feature selected sketches from Urban Sketchers that showcase the contemporary environment, activities and/or unique architectural elements of buildings along Telok Ayer, Kreta Ayer, Bukit Pasoh (Keong Siak) and Tanjong Pagar… Also known colloquially as Da Po, the historic district of Chinatown is more than just a place for food or Chinese New Year shopping. A careful survey … Read More

Oil of Sage (watercolor on paper) Collaborating with writers stimulates my creativity as an artist. And I’m thankful for the open door to work with author Freya Pickard on her Clippings #16. She gave me a snippet of her story titled Oil of Sage… “The aroma of apple wood burning in the grate reminded the elderly man fleetingly of summer. He bent over, lighting the taper in his hand and straightened carefully. The day had been mild, even for this … Read More

artsy pinwheels It is fruitful to involve young children in making art for a cause. I am thankful to have known Student Rebuild through an art website and from then on I never skip on any of their challenges. To participate in the Healing Classroom Challenge, make and mail in a pinwheel. For each pinwheel you make and mail in, the Bezos Family Foundation will donate $2—up to $400,000—to the International Rescue Committee’s Healing Classrooms program to help Syrian children from conflict areas recover … Read More

The learning journeys of my students inspire me. Stories of struggling sketching in pen or not having made art for a lot of years or even fear didn’t stop them from persevering in taking that first step to learn, sketch, paint, make mistakes, learn, sketch… Getting to know their stories through sketches and paints is a wonderful experience!   See part 2 here! Hope you are inspired as I am to sketch your life!  

Bringing the light of Jesus in all that we do wherever we go. Representing Christ well in a world that is challenging our stand for holiness. Our purpose as Christians is this: whatever we do, wherever God place us, we are to carry our beautiful feet to spread the gospel. We are to open our mouths boldly to speak the word without fear. We are to work for the glory of God regardless how we like or dislike what we … Read More

It all started with a seed of idea– friends telling me that they were terrible at drawing and that they can only draw stick figures; my students drawing what they already know in their minds instead of looking at the subject and understand how it looks like. I wanted to reach out to them and make it easy for them to learn how to sketch by seeing. Thus Sketch Your Life was born. Japanese Garden in pen and watercolor It wasn’t easy. I … Read More

Persevering Till the End I saw him again on my way to work and had to quickly sketched him. He lived across from the bus stop, carrying his blue drawstring knapsack along with a belt bag and would slowly inch his way accompanied by his two four-legged canes. He inspires me. At his old age he still goes to work despite his condition. He always entered last in the bus and would go down at the first stop. I have no idea … Read More

It is a great experience to gather with fellow brother and sisters in Christ to make art. It might be intimidating at times especially when others are better than you but let not that stop you from joining and being part of a community. As for me I just want to listen to stories, perhaps learn something new, and paint! First they asked us to draw one another using our non-dominant hand. Some laughed and even had to apologised for the “bad” drawing. Surprisingly … Read More

It has always been my desire to teach painting but I guess teaching painting is quite different from painting itself. I mean when I paint I feel so focused and in the “zone” that I am not actually thinking of the way or steps that I paint. But when I get to teach that, I find it challenging because I need to actually verbalize the steps and be able to translate from what is vague and difficult to manageable and … Read More

Night Cityscape I rarely paint a night scenery. I was thinking how I can proceed because all I can think of is the black color. But in watercolor I find that it is helpful to leave the white of the paper as light instead of painting the whole of the buildings in black. There must be a contrast between the dark and light colors. Hope to experiment and learn more as I practice.  

I enjoy writing letters to family and friends and prefer handwritten over typewritten. In the past I used to buy stationeries but now I prefer to make my own. Not only is this method inexpensive but also handmade things makes everything special. Here’s how I make my own stationeries: Materials: Drawing block paper Scissors Watercolor Brushes Procedures: Cut the drawing block paper into A5 (approx 5.83″ x 8.27″) Decide on a theme for the design. It can be anything. I like nature. Paint … Read More

  Rosey Surrendering to God does not mean I have given up. It only means that I am in need of His help because apart from Him I am bound to make decisions that is based from my own selfish desires and may lead to undesirable action. There is peace when we know that God is sovereign and He is using each of our situation for His greater glory and for our own sanctification. Praise Him in Christ Jesus! * I painted this rose … Read More

One of my favorite watercolor techniques is the line and wash. It means using either ink, pen or even pencil to draw or sketch then overlay it with watercolor wash (diluted watercolor paint). I mostly sketch using a pen because I prefer the spontaneity of capturing what I see around me. This cactus painting was sketched from one of our newly bought cactus plant which sadly died a few days ago. It was a good thing I sketched it so I … Read More

Preserved 2 Too often I work things in my head before I even attempted anything. Because of that I tend to shrink away from the actual work that God has prepared for me to do. My role playing mind says: “Someone can do it better, there is nothing new in what I do, what can people learn from someone like me, i don’t have anything meaningful to say… bottomline is I am not good.” Maybe you can relate. I can … Read More

Despite the prickly appearance, cactus is beautiful. Somehow the cactus’ thorns reminded me of the armor of God. Ephesians 6:13-18 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all … Read More

It was a windy day when I sketched this almost bare tree. It was about to rain and the sky was gloomy. I sketched quickly feeling the wind on my face and hair. I like how the thin tree stood amidst the rocks and inches away from the boulder. It was a lovely sight as if they were communicating with each other. Psalm 61:1-3 Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer; from the end of the earth I … Read More

I actually met this elderly man twice in the bus in two separate weekends. He usually read something off his Ipad. Must be an interesting read in this long journey.

For many of us weekends are for rest. But some need to go to work.

What are they thinking? What are they listening? Where are they going? What is their occupation? How are they feeling? One thing I know–I must not judge them by their appearance or invent stories about their lives because I don’t know who they are.

As I am being refined and renewed and sanctified, I find that I long all the more to dig deeper and deeper into who God created me to be. That means less of the looking around at what this world is up to but more onto His Word first so that I will be able to know the needs of others better. Similarly as I progress as an artist by His grace I want to hone the way I paint and … Read More

Everything that we do demands time and in order to start something we need to make time for it– whether it is to practice something new or to hone something familiar. Sketches in Transit is a personal project of doing sketches while commuting or traveling and the journey in between. It is a way to make time for art and get those rigid fingers to do some loose sketches again. Most of all it is a time to observe, appreciate, reflect and rest. Moments … Read More

We got this Tefal steamer a few months ago and it has made our cooking easier without the effort of having to do stir fry and wash the huge wok. I am not sure which of us have thought it first but husband and I wanted to try make some steamed cake. He searched a simple recipe and we tweaked the ingredients based from our preference and what we have on hand. We are not bakers so it’s our first time to handle … Read More

  I prefer the act of doing quick sketches. Just a waterproof pen and a sketchbook is enough to draw the lines and follow the contours of the object. Head up and down as I see and notice the curves and the object gather. Lines often crooked and wobbly and personal. I paint my sketches mostly at home with a reference photo just so I can remember the colors (but I don’t follow them mostly!) Often I will shade the sketch on the … Read More

I heard the beautiful music played by Uncle across the room and I went out to sketch him. He turned around and asked me what am I doing to which I simply replied, “Sketching you.” I suddenly had this thought that how many of us would like our lives to be interrupted for someone else? We are all busy creatures rarely pausing to rest and even more so to listen to that beautiful melody being played by the old lady at the corner of the street. … Read More

I admit that I am not often the first to initiate conversations and meet ups. The introvert in me prefers to work alone or be with someone whom I know for a long time. But I know that as an artist, I should get out and connect personally with other creatives. But all that has changed when Momi Airees messaged me. We “met” through Instagram and she was also the one whom I commissioned last year to print our wedding invitations using her unique handmade papers. … Read More

Have you tried mangosteen? It is almost the size of a golf ball. It has thick brownish maroon skin with a broad green brown blemished top. The quick and easy way to eat it is to hold it between your fingers, pinch gently until the outer flesh opens. Inside you can see the white pulp (with occasional seeds) which is the edible part. Simply scoop the fruit using your fingers and savor the delicious tangy taste of this healthy fruit. Yum!

People at Food Master, pen and color pencil A friend of mine told me how one of my previous sketches is a bit out of proportion. Before answering, I paused and thought of the many reasons why artists or anyone cannot seem to begin something because they want to reach that state where they can tell themselves, “This is perfect! I am ready.” But in reality is we can never be ready unless we start at some point and learn from … Read More

Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. (Isaiah 43:19) my first painting for 2015 was dated April and the title was Newness. this month’s painting, unaware of the previous almost similar note, I typed New Thing. what’s with being new? or renewed? what is God doing in our lives that is new? how is mercy new? how is grace … Read More

There are moments when I need to stop and reflect the reason behind what I do. When I stumbled upon causes like the Literacy Challenge, I know for sure that art will always serve its purpose and that is to create a change in someone else’s life. So for the Students Rebuild Literacy Challenge, we’re asking young people to make and mail in bookmarks to Students Rebuild. The Bezos Family Foundation will match each bookmark with $1—up to $300,000—to support … Read More

Emma, Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion— the client’s favourite Jane Austen novels accompanied by the stories’ wonderful locations. I haven’t read the timeless novels yet but this project makes me want to flip through one right away.  As always I began any work with a draft sketch and painting. Though this project meant to have 3 separate paintings I have put them all together. Jane Austen Project Draft Below are the initial pencil drawings. I particularly had a challenging time with … Read More

Beyond (watercolor) I sat on the corner of the bed, eyes and nose watery from a possible cold. That’s not how I hope to start New Year. But I know that that is exactly where God wants me to be…right where He is. To hold fast to Him. To rely on His grace. To spend time with Him. Not blindly nod on another selfish commitment or overwhelm myself with lists. God wants me to rest in Him alone. To discard the pleasures of this world … Read More

“Poinsettia” in watercolor My brother and I rode a jeep to attend worship service one Sunday morning. There were no passengers inside except for a little boy. He was wearing a long worn shirt that touches his knee. His bare feet and hands covered in grime. He held a box wrapped with festive paper scribbled with the word donations on top. While we gave him something I ponder about Christmas. Like the little boy we are all covered with the grime, … Read More

Montval Torchon watercolor paper by Canson Infinity I thought of using another product of Canson which is the Montval Torchon watercolor paper for a personal project. The weight of the paper is 270 gsm and it has a snowy appearance like texture. It gives a bumpy feel when touch and opens up like a pad. Snowy surface To test the paper I painted some scenes. 65: Flowery The paper suits my loose style of painting which is mostly wet into wet with minimal details. … Read More

 Course poster Digital products are convenient and versatile. For example I don’t need to make several identical pieces of watercolor background just to cater to a number of clients but I can work on just one piece and it can benefit even more people. It can also be used over and over again. Since we are talking about digital the audience reach is worldwide. In the past I have bought some digital products like eBook tutorials and I also have accumulated a lot of free digital … Read More

Orange Clouds I have been painting skies and landscape for almost two weeks now. I pair those two elements together because a landscape appreciates a sky and vice versa. It is challenging to paint skies because there is a tendency to overwork things and therefore run the risk of ruining a painting. What I learned from this practice is to paint wet into wet to achieve those softened or feathery edges of the clouds. Leave enough white space using negative painting … Read More

Rock of Ages Our God is a strong tower, a shelter for us in need. He is the Rock of Ages for He is our strength, our deliverer, our healer, our life, our portion. Mighty is God for His Name is above all names and His love endures forever. I am reminded of a snippet of the “Great I AM” song: The mountains shake before You the demons run and flee At the mention of the name King of Majesty … Read More

Overlooking The process of painting these days involves drawing a squarish looking box on sketchbook as a guide before painting right away without any initial sketching. There is a certain feeling of freedom when I use Yellow Ochre to draw the horizon before dabbing the clouds with a mix of Cobalt Blue and Burnt Sienna. The experience reminiscent to lying on the beach with eyes closed listening to the soft waves–painting is relaxing. I just want to keep on learning by doing and trusting and … Read More

Yellow Green Patch I am still doing the 500 paintings challenge. The progress is slow but I paint whenever possible. I also begin to use some reference photos from Paint My Photo for some of my landscape paintings since I have only a few photos of them. This month is also called Paint Along October for Dana and I (plus you) as we will be painting daily for 30 days. It doesn’t have to be finished pieces or daily or perfect works of art. The important thing … Read More

Materials on painting washer necklace I was asked to join an accessory swap organized by the talented crafter Nica Cosio. I have never made accessories before but was encouraged to at least try. Wanting to incorporate paints somewhere on the accessory, I stumbled upon tutorials on how to paint washer jewelry. Inspired, I made my own version. Sharing the steps below and hoping that it will inspire you to try making one. :) Step 1: Buy the washers at a hardware store and choose the one with … Read More

Peafowl in watercolor There is something thrilling about painting without an initial sketch. The result is often a pleasant surprise since there is not a clue on how a painting will turn out. Every dance of the brushstroke and flow of the colors portray freedom. As I slowly progress on my journey as an Artist, I hope to step out in faith while I anticipate God’s vision for me. To wait means to get to work, to plant seeds while God gives the growth. There is a … Read More

When I accepted the project of painting the wonderful tourist spots of Paris, I know I was in for an exciting treat of making my client’s memorable places come alive and feeling like I am one step closer to my dream destination. But I am also aware of how challenging this endeavor will be but that didn’t stop me from saying yes. My client mentioned her special places in Paris– Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur, Notre Dame, Arc de Triomphe and the River Seine. She wanted three separate paintings but in … Read More

I joined the Make It in Design Summer School where about 5000 artists from all over the world have accepted the challenge to create patterns based from a creative brief. I am no surface pattern designer but I like patterns and I am always inspired by the diversity of it everywhere. Nature itself is filled with beautiful patterns and I think it is more awesome than man-made. There are three tracks (Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced) and one can try one or all of the tracks. I choose the Beginner … Read More

Share the Love: Lettering for a Cause For all the letterer enthusiasts, this is one opportunity you wouldn’t want to miss. Whether you are a beginner or has tried lettering before, Share the Love workshop is for you. Share the Love is a collaboration between the Love, Type team (Abbey Sy, Den & Steff Labordo) who has facilitated its first workshop last February 15 and Share Movement (Jam Pangilinan) who has organized different workshops for a cause. This upcoming workshop they are organizing for the benefit of Joseph Feeding … Read More

An artsy space. A warehouse turned into a community of artists sharing their passion for all things arts. A homey and cozy place to ignite creativity. What to do? Attend a craft workshop. Jam with musicians. Support organic and handmade. Try delicious comfort food. Bike around the place like these two dudes do. Surreal wall art Mysterious alleyway Hard and… soft patterns Inspiration Comfort food: Shoyu Ramen Good conversation with a friend or just stare into space. Don’t forget to bring your sketchbook. The Collective is … Read More

The word sketchbook excites me. It gives me the space to do sketches of things around me, experiment with art materials and discover new approaches to make art. Mostly I use either the Daycraft or Derwent sketchbooks (but they’re not watercolor friendly) and therefore that led me to bind my own sketchbook using watercolor paper. Last month, an artist from Singapore shared that Monologue, a brand under the Grandluxe Company in Singapore that specializes in premium diary, gift and stationery has released a new line of sketchbooks called Monologue … Read More

After the hard work of drawing the elements, I basically ruined everything by applying strong colors on the sky. I quickly realized (too late!) that I should have painted a wash or do a wet on wet technique to avoid the streaky effect. Somehow I was triggered by fear on how to start painting this huge sky… :| I tried to remedy the effect by removing the colors with a wet brush and tissue paper but the colors have already stained the paper. The last resort would be to re-draw everything but … Read More

The past few days I was excited to help mom prep the chili. I was confident because I watched it done by chefs. I carefully drew the knife across the skin so that it opened in half. Feeling like a pro, I removed the seeds…using my bare fingers. What happened next was beyond my expectation. It was like my fingers have been dipped several times in boiling water. It leave me with a painful burning sensation that lasted for several hours. Half of … Read More

Many times I have caught myself in a cycle of wanting to please people with my art, comparing my work with that of many successful artists, wishing to make more money and joining the bandwagon of doing what you love. While there is nothing wrong with the above-mentioned, I find that art and the world in general is not about me at all. It is about honoring God with the work and skills he has given us and drawing others … Read More

Who doesn’t like pandas? I think they are the fluffiest and cutest creature on earth! I can still remember when we visited the Giant Panda Pavillion at Macau last March. We just literally stared at the glass pane and watched the panda munched on several bamboo sticks for a long time. We didn’t get bored at all. I use the Paint My Photo for a non copyright photo of a panda for my painting reference. I’m sharing simple steps below on how to paint panda in … Read More

Elephants are one of my favorite animals. They are huge and may seem quite intimidating but they exude warmth and calm. I think I have never painted animals before and so May will be a theme of just painting them. I might reference from some non copyright photos at Paint My Photo since I don’t photograph animals much. In this painting, I used a variety of earthy colors. I started with yellow ochre for the lighter areas then quickly added burnt sienna … Read More

I felt the need to paint the squash that I’ve photographed a few days ago. Last month’s theme was still life but I wasn’t satisfied with the few objects that I’ve managed to paint. Hopefully this April I will be able to set up more things and learn by doing. I realized that when I begin to understand how everything I see are colors in disguise, identifying the hue, value and intensity of colors become second nature. I can never … Read More

I have been sketching on location for some time now and have written a number of posts about it. But I’ve never tried joining our local group here called the Urban Sketchers Philippines (USK PH) until last Saturday. The theme for March was Museum and the place where we sketched was at Ayala Museum.  I think the last time I visited this place was during our high school field trip when we were all wearing our P.E. uniforms. ;) That was … Read More

I am very grateful to contribute for Katha Magazine — an online magazine that celebrates Filipino creatives and their boundless imagination. I wrote Child’s Play (the art of painting like a child) and it’s on pages 52-53. You can download it for free and be inspired by all the creativity here. Thank you Katha Magazine! To God be the glory!

I wasn’t able to sketch during our travel walks because we are always in a hurry hence the airport sketches. I adore sketching people better than architecture and things. I think because there is a certain excitement of capturing forms and actions in a quick manner. Sketching humans on location means to be able to adapt to changes and movements of people. You can see many of my unfinished sketches and broken lines. Sometimes I prefer to just draw their shoes. … Read More

March might be a month of painting still life for me. While I was pondering on what to paint next I suddenly thought of ginger. Half of me says it’s not fun to paint this since it’s not that pretty. But another part of me says to explore different subjects and learn from it. I set a simple still life of the ginger on a tissue paper. This painting is all about layering colors. I didn’t wait for the colors … Read More

Painting almost daily and today at number 11. I post on blog if I have something (quite long) to say else I post on Facebook page. Today’s painting is called Rare Bloom because it’s true to its name. I was watering our garden on one of the sunny mornings and I noticed a glimpse of pink softness amidst the browns and greens. I don’t know the name of this medium built shiny leaves shrub but the flowers are beautiful. I’ve … Read More

The center of the flower is the interest and the excitement. It is where the petals are formed and spread into the vastness. The added thrill is looking at the subject for the first time and then thinking how to paint without even sketching. There is a craving for looseness and freedom in the dancing of the brush. The paint is light at first before adding more and then leaving some. The light, the dark and the complementary. Approaching a … Read More

Painting without an initial sketch forces me to truly see a subject in its simplest form. It trains my eye to mentally gauge the position of the patterns. It is challenging but I think this act of painting is the most wonderful. What went well– Painting with water plus a little paint (like a wash) creates a subtle look on the petals without the obvious hard edges. The added red splashes on the upper petal was achieved by re-wetting the … Read More

February is all about painting flowers. I think I will never get tired of painting them.  This series is still from the bouquet given to me by J. Some notes… The intricate details of a flower can be intimidating to paint. I’m almost tempted to sketch it first but thankfully I didn’t. I sort of force my brain to really “see” the flower in its simple shapes. I begin from the center and paint the negative space to leave the … Read More

I am inspired to paint roses in a fresh and liberating style. UK artist Jean Haines shared a tutorial on how to paint roses in a loose way. She is one of the unique watercolor artist whom I admire. She paints without a preliminary sketch. Her paintings are always filled with life. Her book, the Atmospheric Watercolours encourages the artist to pick up the brush and just paint! I am addicted on painting these roses! Hope you all have a … Read More

This is a continuation of a series of painting flowers. When my boyfriend (now fiance) and I were just dating, he used to give me bouquet of assorted flowers and sometimes for no reason at all. I like flowers even if they are only a fleeting creation. I tried to paint this based from what I’ve learned from this artist. I’m learning to paint some of the veins of this flower and most of all to be patient.

I started painting daily on May 2012 for almost 30 days  together with other artists. After that we painted again for about 30 days on Feb 2013. I’ve learned a lot since then but it wasn’t enough. This year will be different. I am challenging myself to paint 500 paintings. The goal and the why– Use my own photos and find local subjects: I’ve often use photos of others (with permission) as subjects for my paintings. I might be eager to paint them … Read More

One of my goals for painting is to do some studies on how to paint certain subjects. One of those is to learn how to paint flowers in a realistic way. I choose an online tutorial of this artist because I like the way he teaches. The interesting part is the result of his painting. It is so real that I want to pluck the flower out of the paper! However, it took me almost three days to follow along, and not to … Read More

I often tell Freya how her words evoke a creativity that prompts me to pick up the brush. Her stories elevate my senses like a curious child. I think we all experience that same wonder and marvel of reading a novel, a poem or a short story from a writer whose words affect our lives in a profound way. Wanting to stretch my creativity as well as thank my author friend for her inspirational words, I offered to create an … Read More

I have been a participant of postcard swaps since 2012 but it involves international recipients. I also joined Postcrossing where one creates a postcard and sends it to someone across the world. One will receive a postcard from a random person in return. I think this is a fun way to get to know a stranger, don’t you think? However, I realized that this is my first ever local postcard swap that involved more people. I remembered how I told Michiko of … Read More

“Old Man at Cafe” pen and watercolor on sketchbook What is your routine? Do you have one? Isn’t it cool to know other people’s routine? I do. I recently stumbled on an article about the Daily Routines of Famous Writers. It is interesting to know how creative people organizes his or her day and what they do with the little time that they have. It fascinates me that we all have our own daily routines and although there might be similarities … Read More

Golden Yellow in watercolor The leaves shriveled into a crisp golden yellow ochre with a hint of cobalt burnt. Like wind chimes following the whisper of the wind, the old leaves dance slowly but definitely not its last. For new things will take root and it will grow fruitful. If anyone is in Christ he is a new creation: The old has gone and the new has come (2 Cor 5:17)! He is no longer slave to sin and tradition. … Read More

Dancing Trees: Acrylic on approx 4″W x 6″H archival watercolor paper The first time that I have heard of Vandy Massey‘s wonderful project called Running with Brushes (RWB) I did not hesitate to join in the collaboration. This is what it is all about as stated in their website: Running With Brushes is a very personal challenge to us, on many levels. This year (2013) our younger son joined Rifles. Over his year of training at Sandhurst we have become increasingly … Read More

I think the beauty of binding one’s own sketchbook is that it is personal and one can incorporate different types of paper and decorate its cover to one’s heart content. It is wonderfully cheap too. And so I was very thankful to have “known” Effy Wild who created a fabulous bookbinding tutorial which was so easy to follow. Quite an addicting craft I must say! Above is the list of materials that I used. It is pretty much the same … Read More

“Magic View” approximately 6″W x 9″H inches; mixed media on 140 lb archival watercolor paper $27 Unframed This painting was inspired by a photograph of Hannah Loaring of Further Bound (she’s a traveler, {awesome} writer and graphic designer) during her travel to Goa. The large tree caught me by surprise and I find myself itching to paint those branches circling gracefully towards the heaven. Majestic. I asked her for a title suggestion and she said that the tiny path that leads to this spot starts … Read More

“Outburst” watercolor on 4×6 watercolor paper I was invited to join the Face in the World hosted by Ayala. According to her this is about painting of a face by different people. So we all make one starting painting (as in: sketch, or texture, or just  a squiggle… anything to just “start” the piece, then we mail it to the person in our team. We are divided into groups of 3 members. I’ve drawn portraits before but not the whimsy kind and that … Read More

  “Rest” Watercolor and pen on paper As much as I dislike having flu I am still thankful for the time that I can rest and just be still. I received a timely post about my exact feelings from Michele Theberge about Meander Time. According to her, meander time is that unstructured, unproductive, unhurried envelope in which there are no goals, no urgency towards completion, only a free and easy flow of listening to and following our quiet inclinations. I … Read More

“Few More Steps” watercolor on sketchbook Half of the day I decided to sketch and paint one of Hannah Loaring’s photos at Further Bound. It was rather a quick sketch on pen and then a loose brush of watercolor. The poor paper cannot take much of the abuse of water. Also the paint stains therefore it is difficult to soften some edges. After working on my first freelance project and waiting for the client’s feedback I silenced myself for a … Read More

“Tulips Overflow” Watercolor on paper It is the 3rd week of the free online class of Introduction to Art Concepts and Techniques at Coursera. It is my dream to study in art school but I am still grateful for this opportunity to learn the basics of art online and interact with fellow artists. The topic for that week is correspondence with memory– mail art! This mail art is entitled Tulips Overflow. The medium behind the work on the handmade envelope … Read More

“Warmth in the Midst” Digital Painting I am so honored to have my work featured in the front cover of Ends of the Earth last issue e-zine. I am very thankful to the editor Anna Brock for choosing me to contribute. The theme is Feathers & Fish-tales. I did not publish any writing related to the artwork. But right now I am inspired to write a short poem that inspires it. Someone must have heard, The crunch and rustle of … Read More

“Orchids Memory” Mixed Media on paper I love to paint what is around me especially the things that strike me as profound and unearthly. My dad bought orchids a few weeks ago but it died. All I was able to save was a simple sketch of the flower which prompt this painting. Orchids Memory is done in mixed media which uses acrylics for the orchids and watercolor for the background. I painted the orchids using a palette knife with acrylic paint. … Read More

“Sweet Escape” 7″W x 5″H acrylics on 300 gsm archival watercolor paper $18 Unframed In the city where I lived there is the constant bustle of a typical city life. The daily pollution for the senses. I dreamed of a home where I can visit and stay sometimes. A home that is far and peaceful. Filled with nature without a doubt. Somewhere where I can rest and pray and paint quietly. As I begin to search for inspiration I know I had … Read More

“Irises” watercolor on paper After painting in acrylics for quite a few days, I forgot how watercolor should be treated. Today this versatile medium reminded me that freedom is its name. I let go knowing that I will be guided by my intuition– the child in me at play. Boy, was it fun! *** I need some advice from you– Have you tried selling paintings (acrylics or watercolor) in watercolor paper? If so do you spray fixative or sealants on … Read More

“In the Moment” pen and watercolor on sketchbook Getting back to the groove of life means to start somewhere. Anywhere. Anything. This week had been full of just that. I pour myself on art. I pour myself on being a beginner again. I learn and I had fun. It doesn’t have to be a chore. It doesn’t have to be perfect. When I say pour I use time wisely. No distractions of any kind. Just me and my art. I … Read More

“Home” acrylic on watercolor paper For some reason when I pick up my acrylic paints, All I can think about to paint is structure. Like post, wall, bricks, pattern. And usually I leave something atmospheric among the crowd. Something alive. Most of the time I don’t know the outcome of my painting (unless it’s planned). It always just present itself. Like watching a series where the events slowly unfold. Leaving the painter nothing but excitement.

“Ruins” Acrylic on paper “Burst” Acrylic on paper I am eating paint for breakfast. Although my breakfast is always a typical oatmeal, bread and egg, My approach to painting has been nothing but intuitive play. Like a child dabbing on a color and applying it confidently onto canvas, I trust the process of creating. It warms my heart to know that God created this world out of nothing. He inspires me to create a masterpiece out of a blank paper. … Read More

“Sketch People” ink on sketchbook I love sketching people. I particularly find comfort to sketch them in private like when they are busy or when their backs are turn on me. There will be times when I find myself sketching them up front. I caught their eyes staring at me. For a moment I feel a wash of shame because they might thought that I am being disrespectful. But those were just my thoughts. Because who knows what they were … Read More

“Sunset Paradise” in watercolor, 140lb Saunders Waterford A friend of mine asked me to do a painting for her birthday. I feel honored to be part of her special occasion. I feel God’s affirmation on my dream through the people who supports my art. I started brainstorming on what to paint for Cleng. I always want to make a personal painting. I started browsing her photos at FB. There were a lot of seascapes. I know she loves the beach. … Read More

“Parents” in watercolor 31 years of marriage. 31 years of love. Imperfect though they are, But their love for each other will last a lifetime. Thank you Lord God, For my parents. For their love for each other. For their love for us too. Thank you for Your love.

But when I fix my eyes on all that You are Then every doubt I feel Deep in my heart Grows strangely dim All my worries fade And fall to the ground Cause when I seek Your face And don’t look around Any place I’m in Grows strangely dim

Today I am gently reminded by God through letters from our sponsored child, Chen-Chen. She said that we must always be happy even if we have problems. Be happy not sad. Her birthday is coming up. This painting is my gift to her. She has just graduated from elementary and will be starting high school soon. We are so happy and excited for her new journey. Thankful to God that we can be a blessing to this child through our … Read More

“Brushes and Watercolor Paints” in watercolor In my life as an Artist I have learned that there are two kinds of struggle. Happy struggle and sad struggle. Both struggles experience difficulty, suffering, hurt– all the bad stuffs. But the happy struggle chooses to turn all the bad stuffs into good stuffs. It turns it into a learning. A blessing. A point to start over. Refreshed. A chance to make it up on lost time. Meanwhile the sad struggle chooses to … Read More

A quick painting of a lighthouse in watercolor. I am enjoying painting without a preliminary sketch. Painting brings much excitement in me. Particularly watercolor painting. Even though the learning never ends, The desire is there. Painting everyday is a habit I will never forgo.

I miss my daily painting. I was off travelling with my family at Singapore. It was an amazing 4 day escapade. I was able to squeeze in some travel sketches though they are very simple things. We had a tight itinerary. Our feet in blisters and our shoes almost tearing apart (except for my dad). Nevertheless this was a blessed trip. Praise God! Day 1 and 2: Pattern and print sketches Day 5 : Changi Airport going back home sketch … Read More

I’m posting 3 postcards that I have sent over to some Artists at Germany and the USA. Joining this swap over at Artist in Blogland is so much fun. :) Red Tulips Soft Medley Violet

God loves us first. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. – 1 John 4:10-11 Happy Heart’s/Love/Valentine’s Day everyone! <3

While I paint I am reminding myself to live in love. With each stroke that I made I tell myself to live in love. Because that is what we are all born to do. To love and nothing else. This is our true nature. This is our genuine essence of self. We are made with so much love. We are made beautifully in His image and likeness. And we are whispered with love. So that as we live, We live … Read More

“If clouds are blocking the sun, there will always be a silver lining that reminds me to keep on trying.” — Matthew Quick

Sketch of one of my favorite character in the film Happy Thank you More Please: Annie Annie opening the bottle of medicine using her mouth after failed attempts of opening it with her hands. Pen and watercolor on sketchbook Annie: About a year ago, I was in this cab, and the cab driver – this Indian guy, started telling me…he started telling me all sorts of stuff. He was just looking at me in the rear view mirror and he … Read More

When we are feeling the brokenness in our lives, fragility setting in our bones and holes penetrating our hearts, may we never cease to live. I was taking a very slow walk last week and noticed these beautiful plants in our garden. Despite the many holes and frailties of its existence, the dried sagging leaves and broken core… they are all alive. Full of colors and strength. Living in the New Year. Beautiful. And I just had to capture them … Read More

“New Year: In memory of the 27 souls of Sandy Hook Elementary School” ~Watercolor in Berkeley paper 2012 has been a brave year for me. I want to live. I need to feel alive in what I do. And so I layout my plans to God. Slowly as the sun rises and sets my prayer is answered. It’s a joyful bumpy ride: to go back to school, to quit my 5-year job, to be a Christian and truly worship and … Read More

I have known God since I was a little girl when my parents enrolled me in a Catholic school. I know him in the stories of the Bible. I know that I cannot see him but I can possibly hear or feel him. But he sees us wherever we are. God is my everything. Words cannot be written to explain the grandiosity of God. Arts cannot be created to reveal the beauty of his majesty. All I know is this: … Read More

It’s actually a first for me to join a mail swap from my own country as I’ve joined most from other countries. LOL. I am happy and thankful for this Merry Mail Swap hosted by the creative Mansy. She sells wonderful washi tapes too! I hope to get my hands on two of my favorites washi tapes soon! :D We are to fill a 6 x 9 package with something Christmas-y. My assigned partner was Lisane B. She loves to … Read More

I joined a Christmas card swap over here at Willowing. My partner is Amy Malaise and among the many interesting things about her I decided to create a painting of a Christmas book display inspired by a photo in the internet. She loves books a lot! Christmas Book Display: Acrylic painting on 5 x 5 watercolor paper I also painted a bookmark for her with a black cat because she adores them. Now she can read many books at once!  Black … Read More

To all of you Artists, who think that this dream seems impossible because of a lot of reasons but still make time to create something simple everyday, who struggle with obstacles and challenges in life but never give up, who paint fearless, who create God inspired artworks, who take a break and pause and thus become more aware of being alive, who use time wisely with plenty of play, who give lovely comments and provide helpful advice, who share your … Read More

This is my second time to join the handmade craft exchange hosted by Linda Gardner. And this time it’s a holiday gift exchange! We are assigned a partner wherein we will make and give each other a handmade gift. Hello to Nicqui Scott from UK! She loves to cook, bake, knit, sew, make quilts, tea parties and many others. I wish I know how to knit or make some patchwork but since she loves to cook I decided to buy … Read More

I managed to squeeze in some sketching time whenever possible during my travel with family. Sharing a few quick sketches in pen and watercolor. A sleepy lady at the airport View in front of our hotel waiting for boat ride to Cotai Strip Macau utensils from grandma’s home at N.P HK I thank God for this blessed trip! Smile! PPF!

Today I painted fairly quickly. I felt a bit rusty to be honest. You know the feeling of not being able to paint for a week. The thoughts–the fear they all rushed in. However, these are normal because I am painting. I tried bleeding away the first application of violet but it stays. It seems to stain. Any thoughts? This is another attempt–to paint tomatoes.. To console myself I painted this with nothing in mind. I am not sure if … Read More

An unplanned black and white painting that turned out surprising. The result reminds me of winter. Though we don’t have winter here. Black and white is not the absence of colors or colorful colors. It’s the beginning of one. Blessings to all of you especially at the U.S area. Huge Hugs! *** Fall Fearless and Fly Color Prompt:  Black and white

My triumph and defeat lies in the way I think about myself and my circumstances. I compare myself to a tree that has been stripped from its leaves due to the changing seasons and yet it still stands tall and beautiful. We have all experienced hardships and trials in life. And always we emerged out of it stronger than ever. Often we feel like giving up. We complain. We blame. We cry. But just like the bare trees we still … Read More

My least favorite colors would be the dull colors. In my palette I rarely use Prussian Blue, Burnt Umber, Black and Earth Green. Though Prussian Blue isn’t dull I am not sure why I seldom use it. I adore Phthalo and Cobalt Blue better. I also splatter a bit of Yellow Ochre for a bit of drama. I love the result. I love how we can just use any colors and paint something wonderful. No matter how these colors are … Read More

Taking a leap of faith is like taking that first (scary!) step towards the beautiful dark tunnel of the unknown and then emerging with a sense of hope, strength and freedom. Pure joy. I always listen to my heart where God speaks in me before I take any chances. Is what I want to do align with what God wants me to do? Is what I am about to do bring Him glory? I listen in stillness and in solitude. … Read More

We don’t have fall in our country. But I am celebrating Fall with all of you who are experiencing it right at this moment. I love the glorious colors and the shedding away of the old. Nature is beautiful. Inspired by fall again… I painted Medley of Red Orange for a friend who is hosting her baby shower this Saturday. I cannot describe the freedom I have felt while working on this painting. Imagine dripping, splattering and engulfing of colors … Read More

Warm Leaves for Lynn Cohen (prize of my past giveaway). Finally!!!! And I guess what took me so long to pick up the brush and paint this piece is because of fear…or perhaps thinking of the best thing to paint. Or busyness. And I learn better. So I just pick up my brush and paint paint paint. And I’m thankful. I hope this painting surprises her. This is inspired by Fall. Warm Leaves. Watercolor and Acrylics in Berkeley watercolor paper … Read More

All along I thought I am painting in a free, relax manner. Until I got hold of 3 watercolor books. A gift from my bf. Wonderful books pack with tips and learning. The artists paint freely in their own style. I’m eager to learn new techniques. I started the Atmospheric Watercolours by Jean Haines. Her paintings are loose, wild, vibrant and screaming with freedom. I think back on how I paint– It’s in a manner that I can feel the brush on paper, … Read More

As Artists we have limitations too. Surely creating art is fun. Painting is awesome. Attending art class is fulfilling. But we also need to take a break from the creative things that we do. In my case it’s a break from doing assignments and projects in my Visual Design class. I know myself deeply. And I know when to stop. I know when it’s too much to bear. Brainstorming has been a draining process lately. My idea generating machine is … Read More

Before I was able to conceptualize this piece I have felt an immense sense of frustration. For not coming up with concepts quickly. For stressing myself out on what tools to use to get the intended effect. For being stuck  with the branches. It was 6:10pm. The deadline is the next day. I wanted to cry. But I take a rest instead. And it is while resting that I said to myself that God will not leave me. Then I … Read More

The prize of my giveaway is to ask what the 2 winners would like me to draw or paint for them. Today I am sharing with you my painting for Faye who is also a participant in PPF. She told me that she would love a painting of a seascape. Lighthouse Calm. Watercolor and Acrylics in Berkeley 180 gms watercolor paper It is a pleasure painting this beautiful seascape. As I paint I learn. I enjoy the process. I’ll be better too … Read More

I have finally received the Craft Exchange gift from my Crafter Dominika Bozic! Paris je t’aime Angel She accompanied the painting with a lovely warm letter. This beautiful angel with my favorite Eiffel tower is painted on canvas so that I can frame it anytime. I don’t know how long I have stared at this painting but it was quite long! I love the details and the bright colors used. This painting evokes my childhood moments and definitely brings a huge … Read More

I joined the 5th Great Big Stitched Postcard Swap hosted by Beth Nichols of Do What You Love. The theme is Discover. What a powerful word. All my life I have been discovering and re-discovering about who I am. To be myself. To be strong. To live with a purpose. To live for Him. I am a child of God. That alone is enough to give breath and depth into my being. As I create this painting I am also discovering … Read More

One of the past lessons that I greatly enjoyed in my Advance Photoshop class is Matte Painting. According to Wikipedia, matte painting is a painted representation of a landscape, set, or distant location that allows filmmakers to create the illusion of an environment that would otherwise be too expensive or impossible to build or visit. Below is the original photo of a very beautiful day in the mountain with an empty house. Our goal is to turn it into a night … Read More

*****************************Giveaway Closed************************* I have to apologized today for not sharing any painting as I am very busy with my class and my wrists are hurting easily these days. Right now I have to somehow ignore the numbing while I type. I think I have to spent 2 days off the computer. I joined this mail art exchange hosted by the lovely Kissinia Rom from Ireland. She sent me a package today containing a decorated envelope with 3 small envelopes inside. … Read More

This artwork is digitally drawn and painted in Photoshop. This piece was submitted for the Green Canvas contest in light of preserving our forest. I was referring to this artwork when I talk about it at the PPF interview. This is to God. And this is also to You. To you who supported my art endeavors from the day that I was reminded of this dream. Who gives valuable criticism and ideas on how I can improve further. Who praises my … Read More

I joined a painting contest hosted by Art Tutor. A newly launched website through a collaboration of one of my favorite watercolorist Bob Davies and his son, Art Tutor features foundation courses for all mediums. They are slowly building up content and everything will be available hopefully by mid July. It’s literally my first time to join a painting contest. And to paint something from a photograph is a challenge to me. We have to choose which category to join. I … Read More

Sometimes– We have to be ruined in order to be healed. We have to cry in order to be enlightened. We have to get hurt in order to feel love. We have to get lost in order to find our way back. We have to lost someone in order to show appreciation. We have to fall in order to be brave. We have to suffer in order to live. We have to be weak in order to be humbled. We … Read More

I joined the Handmade Gift Exchange for June 2012 hosted by the lovely Linda Gardner. I was assigned a Craftee (person who will receive my handmade gift) who is from Germany named Friesenliese. I learned from her website that she’s a crafty person. She loves to sew, knit, read and many more. I was a bit pressured since I don’t know how to sew or knit or even worse make things. How I wish I can make jewelries or knit some hats! … Read More

When I joined the one month painting everyday challenge last May inspired by Dana I know that I can do this. Although I have skipped a few days and that today is June already I decided to go beyond May so that I have actually painted for a month. I will continue. What painting everyday has taught me: 1. I love to use bright warm and cool colors. 2. I almost always tend to put on random splashes of color … Read More

The past few days of June I have been feeling emotional. The heaviness of heart. The pressure of making decisions. I feel that time is running away and yet I haven’t accomplished a thing. Nothing special. Nothing useful for my dreams. While others continue to make more money with their artistic endeavors I feel that I am left behind. I can’t think with clarity. The road to my journey seems foggy. Nothing seems right. With nothing much that I can … Read More

I painted a mini booklet filled with the beautiful meaning of love from the Bible as a simple gift for a friend who has just gotten married. I enjoyed painting on it. I have given the booklet to her. I hope she likes it. Enjoy! “Love is Kind” “Love rejoices in truth”; “Love bears all things” “Love believes all things”; “Love hopes all things” “Love endures all things”; “Love never fails” God is Love Have a beautiful weekend filled with … Read More

I painted this study light called Switch Light at our living room. This is used by my Dad whenever he reads newspaper at night while watching T.V. I often imagine having a Switch Light on my bed side table so that I can read without having to open the main light. But I still manage without it. I have been thinking a lot about how I can step up in terms of my dreams. But really all I could do right … Read More

I bring a small sketchbook with me everywhere I go. Whenever I had the opportunity to sketch, I sketch. I use a Pen. And as you can see there are crooked lines and the stem is out of the bottle. The bottle itself is out of shape too. There’s no way I can erase those mistakes. And it’s perfectly okay. I use a water brush and the water oozes too much onto the paper. With paint too. It is a … Read More

I am still studying Colors. Today I started building up the color wheel as instructed by Dr. Betty Edwards. Primary Colors (Yellow, Red, Blue) Secondary colors (Orange, Violet, Green)– they cannot be achieved by mixing 2 primaries since it creates muddy versions. Thereby manufacturers created separate pigments for them. Tertiary Colors (Yellow orange, red orange, red violet, blue violet, blue green, yellow green). They are created by mixing 1 primary with 1 secondary except for red violet where Alizarin Crimson … Read More

As I continue my study of  Colors I learned that colors alone tell stories and breathe interpretation of moods, feelings and senses. For the first exercise I paint the colors that I like and the colors that I dislike. If you have seen my paintings in the past the dominant colors that I usually use are the bright ones. Personally my favorite colors are green, yellow and blue I love browns but I rarely use them especially when I am painting … Read More

I was out all day on a Sunday. Driving lesson. Bonding with the boyfriend after a 1 week no meetup hiatus (it’s that long LOL). I brought my sketchbook with me and manage to draw while we’re just chilling at a cafe. Below is the leftover pieces of a Brandy Walnut Prune Cake. Very small slice. A Mother sat one table apart from us. I adore the prints of her blouse. For today’s painting I was studying Color— a course … Read More

I adore sketching. I do urban sketching (sketching on-location) as much as painting. Currently I am studying this wonderful book introduced by a local urban sketcher called “Fast Sketching Techniques by David Rankin“. The above is a quick sketch from a reference deer photo. Mr. Rankin advised to use a 9B graphite pencil when sketching because basically you can create values after the sketch by using a blending tool (artist stump or your fingers) in shading it. It’s a very … Read More

“Mother Love” This Mother’s Day give the gift of love to your Mom or to someone whom you have considered a Mother through our Harmony Cards. Mother Love is a special card that is digitally designed using various photos of nature’s greens and barks that made up the trunks and branches. Then it is digitally painted exhibiting feminine colors, nature’s beauty and a lot of love. *** Specifics: Postcard-style greeting card with the back leave as blank for you to … Read More

Have you ever written on the wall? I did. Somewhere in the crevices I draw and sometimes I write my name. Who’s your national hero? Are you inspired by him or her while carrying out your dreams? I am. I don’t know if I REALLY know who I am. Most of the time I struggle to be wholeheartedly ME. But I always pray that every time I am turning out into “WHO-AM-I?” I will stay CONNECTED with myself. Be MORE AWARE. … Read More

Sketching on-location is a challenge. Sometimes the actual subject changes because of the various outside elements. Below is an example. A man suddenly sat on the left side of the bench whilst I was almost done with the sketch. I wasn’t aware that I should have check the right side to complete the lower left part of this bench. Can you spot the awkward disconnection? Nevertheless, if you want to enjoy the process of sketching outdoors despite the distraction of … Read More

It starts with a Sketchbook. Or a paper. Use a Ballpen. Or a pencil. Last year I journal with words. I write my day’s event on paper. Filling it with complete details as much as possible. This 2012 I still journal but this time I DRAW my day’s event and write. I draw inspiration from a coffee break with a friend who by the way is chasing after his dreams. Hooray! I draw what I observe. My sister here is a … Read More

It’s been a while since I last visited DLS-CSB. I sat down at the famous Plaza V–think Boracay beach or other beaches that has huts. I sat on one of the huts and started reminiscing for a bit the good old times as a student when we were still doing our thesis in this very spot, telling stories and secrets and meeting new people. I pull out my Derwent hardbound sketchbook and my Sakura Pigma Micron 3.0 Pen and started … Read More

This quick sketch (in watercolor) was done during the external audit for ISO20K. I am working under the Quality Services Team. The external auditor from BSI (British Standards Institution) is from New Delhi India but he said he is currently residing in Singapore as part of his work. I admire him very much because of his intelligence, humor and stories. We learned a lot from him during his two-day stay. Whenever I look at him I can’t help but hope that … Read More

The Butterfly Effect is a wonderful inspiration by Trudi Sissons who stumbled upon a project called The Butterfly Project hosted by The Holocaust Museum Houston in Texas, USA. The Butterfly Project mandate is to remember the 1,500,000 innocent children who perished as a result of the Holocaust by collecting 1.5 million handmade butterflies. In Spring 2013, these butterflies will then become a break-taking exhibition to serve as a memory of this event. Why a butterfly? Read on the poem below: I Never Saw Another Butterfly The last, the very last, So richly, … Read More

Ever since Harmony Thoughts started last April 2011 it has been a huge blessing to me in so many ways–giving a bit of inspiration to others and in their creative endeavors as well as fulfilling my creative dreams. As a way to expand my horizon but more importantly so to extend some help to our poor brothers and sisters I will be creating one greeting card at a time and selling it for a cause. I have always wanted to … Read More

I found out about 100 Illusrations through Diana Evans, a proud founder of this awesome project and an active member of Paint Party Friday.100 Illustrations helps to market and get our artworks out in the world by publishing it into a book. In order to achieve this, it requires the participation of 100 illustrators by submitting their works. The current theme for this project is: My Favorite Food. I am thrilled that my work is included in the 100 Illustrations. Aside from … Read More

I created a rough drawing of a girl waiting outside the train station. I was waiting for someone while making this sketch. The colors are done digitally using PhotoShop. If you observe the drawing you can see either two things: (1) There are imperfections all around this sketch, or (2) The colors and the “imperfections” depict creativity and echo a certain personality of the artist. If you think about it I have the choice of improving my drawing such as … Read More

I fancy architecture. I draw this piece from the cover of my watercolor pencil case. I am studying tone in colors and thought I could apply the concept in this drawing. I color this with Derwent watercolor pencils. You can see how the light and shade (tone) are created on where the sun and shadow hits the different parts of the structure. To make a tone darker, I learn to add black + the original color varying the intensity with the … Read More

The above is a quick sketch of a dog inside a bag at a tea shop. I did not include the man who owns both because he is soon to leave. Since I have done it on a normal paper I cannot color it with watercolor so I photographed it instead and rendered the colors digitally. Then I added some snowflakes because that idea has been in my head for a while. I love how the dog fits inside the … Read More

My boyfriend’s birthday will be on Aug 7. I created a card for him by painting a flower in watercolor. I always thought how cool it would be if a girl gives a guy flowers and since I don’t have enough time to buy some for him, I decided to just paint them. The lovely caption is also created in paint. I wrote my lovely letter at the back. I hope he won’t get to read this entry till I … Read More

One of our dear officemate which is also our friend is leaving the team (my previous team at work) and moving on to a new role (we’re happy for her!).  I was assigned to work on the design of the scrapbook to be given to her. It was scary just thinking about committing on something which I am not very sure how it would turn out. But what better for me to do than to take the first step? I … Read More

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 There is an appointed time for everything.  And there is a time for every event under heaven ~ 2 A time to give birth, and a time to die; A time to plant, and a time to uproot what is planted. 3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; A time to tear down, and a time to build up. 4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; A time to mourn, and a time to dance. … Read More

I got another new set of “toys” to play with and that is none other than the watercolor pencils from Derwent! Thanks to my boyfriend who has given me this gorgeous set! I am loving my art toys so far! I can’t wait to try them and so I grabbed my sketchbook and a chair and hop outside for some garden drawing. There is this beautiful colored plant that caught my attention and I sketched it right away. I traced … Read More

Untitled is the poem written by my creative friend Jodie Omana. She loves to write and compose poetry. This is one heartfelt piece! I volunteered to make a design for her and this is what I have came up with–a digital illustration

These beautiful photos is a group effort of 50 Photoblog members. This is a wonderful project of Gerd Korts (aka known as GKorts in PB) where he aims to have a collage of 100 photos. Can you guess where’s mine? Note: Photoblog (PB) is a website where people can join and post photos for everyone from around the world to see. It’s a great community that I hope it will always retain. Here you can see 365 Projects, challenges, chronicles of daily … Read More

If there is one place in the world that I am crazy about, that would definitely be Paris. Paris is music to my ears. The Eiffel Tower is such a magnificent structure. Beautiful piece of iron. Drawing it and making it look pretty doesn’t do justice for this famous tower. Nevertheless, I have never felt this close to Paris. Making this watercolor art definitely bring me closer to my dream destination. Je t’aime! What’s your dream destination? Please join me … Read More

We have been experiencing rain for almost a week, thanks to the typhoon named Falcon. It brought us strong rain and gust of wind causing floods everywhere, small tornado in some places  and leaving a lot of people homeless and missing. It’s a sad state whenever nature suddenly strikes. It leaves us powerless that we can only pray. While the rain pours, I have been busy with my Sketchbook Project. And since it’s Friday, it’s a perfect time to share … Read More

In light with the celebration of Philippine Independence Day, Manila Bulletin hosted an event last June 11, 2011 at the Ayala Triangle Makati City called Sketch Fest with the theme of Freedom of Expression. People from all walks of life registered in the on-the-spot drawing contest showcasing their own interpretation and creativity. It’s my first time to join an art contest.

The Sketchbook Project is like a concert tour, but with sketchbooks. This wonderful initiative was started by 2 high school boys at Atlanta last 2006. At first small, little did they know that this will be a grand venue for all artist to do what they love and share these to the world. I wanted to join since last year but the sign up is closed already. This year I grab the chance and will be joining thousands of artists … Read More

Experimenting with mixing colors and the feel of the brushes Experimenting with shadows and light Experimenting with reflection and creating clouds out of the blue sky that is a struggle ;p Experimenting with sky.. but it doesn’t turn out smoothly.. But I love the warm buildings though! Now who wants coffee? Making this murky mud requires the least of effort! Lol! trying to experiment the different shades of browns and lights. The shadows should be lighter. An attempt in painting … Read More

I love watercolor. I love the after texture that it creates– the different mixes of colors blended to create a harmonious painting. I love how it has a “life” of its own– the way the colors just creep towards each other creating a surprise or sometimes what they call a “happy accident”. I love brushes. I love the sight of watercolor tubes on a palette. I love watching or seeing people’s paintings in watercolor. Imagine the joy it brings to me … Read More