Fresh Start and New Beginnings

"The Magic of New Beginnings is truly the most powerful of them all."   

Every moment is a fresh beginning...

My first painting of the new year is a still life I created on an old canvas. Painting a new acrylic painting over an old one.  Working somewhat intuitively, the underlying images become faintly visible.  Also, creating interesting texture and a sense of history.

As we move forward in our creative journey, let's remember to be kind to ourselves.  Embracing continuous growth, adaptation, and experimentation.

I want to share a few traits of a successful artist that were sent to me by a fellow artist.

Humility:  Great painters stay in the learner mode.  

Courage:   Don't let fear and intimidation motivate you to play it safe.

Faith:         Start each painting expecting something wonderful to happen.  And, don't lose hope if it migrates into the ugly stage.  Just keep going.

Resilience:  Paintings are not precious, and failed attempts are part of the process.  

Believe in yourself and your artistic journey this year.

This new year is a fresh canvas and a chance to reignite your purpose!

Happy New Year!

Ursula 💕

Autumn's Embrace

          Autumn shows us how beautiful it is to let things go.....

                           Autumn is a time of reflection and letting go of what no longer serves us.

 

I found this reference photo on a royalty-free website and knew I wanted to do a painting from it.

When I first started this painting, I was ready to give up after my first layer of watercolor washes.  I haven't painted much this summer, and getting back to painting seemed slightly daunting.  

I set it aside for about a week before diving back in.  Little by little, step by step, it began to develop, and I found myself enjoying the process.  Taking risks by applying inks, watercolors, and mixing it all up!  Layer upon layer, it began to take shape.  Working through the "messy middle phase".   The real painting doesn't start until you work to bring that mess into focus.

God encourages trusting the process by teaching that He works in steps and processes to bring about His plan and promises, not instant results.  We may have to go through the "messy middle stage" before we understand the reason behind our current circumstances.  Trusting in His ultimate purpose, which works all things for good for those who love Him.  Trusting involves leaning on God.  

This scripture has been a wonderful reminder for me through the years:  Proverbs 3: 5-7

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

My painting may not be perfect, but each painting can teach us valuable lessons about patience, perspective and creativity.  Letting go of the pressure of perfection is what allows us for the most authentic

growth!

Until next time.

Ursula xo

Sun kissed days of summer

                                             "Summertime is always the best of what might be."

I haven't spent much time in my studio this summer.  I love going out into the fresh morning air and tending to my flower beds.  Taking nature walks, pool time , farmers market, longer days and the freedom and relaxation that comes along with it.

We will be heading to Northern Wisconsin for a cousin reunion later this month.  This will be our third year in Rhinelander on Squash Lake.  I love hearing the loons at night, the gorgeous sunsets over the lake and time spent with family and friends.

My favorite activity is kayaking on the lake.  A tranquil escape into a peaceful and natural environment. 

I took several photos  of the water lilies while out on the lake last year and have been inspired to paint a few.  

                                    "In the language of flowers, a lily speaks of love profound"

                 I used Daniel Smith watercolors, Frisket Mask Fluid and salt to the leaves in the              underpainting.

                                  My finished piece painted on 140lb cold press watercolor paper

My hope is you are enjoying these last days of summer and having some fun and feeling refreshed.

August bridges summer and fall, offering a mix of warm weather and subtle shift towards autumn.  

                                                                   Enjoy every moment!

Ursula 

 Spring is here, embracing the new season.

Much is happening around this season of spring.  My tulips are in full bloom along my back yard fence.  Standing so proud and tall with their delicate petals and vibrant colors.  Reminding us of rebirth and renewal.

I have been embracing shapes and color within my new paintings in acrylics.  Making such a creative mess in my studio!  But having so much fun exploring and incorporating new ideas and ways to approach a painting.  

It has been interesting to learn how to set up a still life with the perfect lighting and back drop. 

I will return to watercolors again, but learning from different mediums helps us in many ways.  "It aids retention, knowledge, motivates interest in the subject matter and illustrates the relevance of many concepts."  The versatility allows us to explore different techniques, material and styles, enriching creative expression.  I often like to combine my mediums at times.

 For example; Create a fluid colorful background in watercolor and use opaque acrylic paint forms that layer over the watercolor.  A combination of transparency, fluid effects and giving you a wide range of techniques and textures.  It's fun to experiment and you may be surprised what you discover.

So many reasons to embrace this time of year.  Longer days and warmer temperatures.  Renewal, fresh beginnings, hope and a new sense of optimism.  

Oh, and we celebrated our 50 year anniversary this spring and are in the planning stages for our son's wedding in May!

Life is good!

Until next time;

Ursula 

Brushstrokes Matter

Have you ever wondered why brush strokes matter in a painting?  Regardless of the medium brushstrokes evoke movement, texture, depth and emotion.  Each brush stroke is unique! Using a variety of brushes helps us loosen up and create a more interesting and textural piece of art.  This allows us to feel the energy and convey the experience to the observer. 

 Making a painting more painterly so to speak.  Giving your art a deeper level, other than just color.  It allows us to achieve the desired effect of detail in different areas of a painting.  

Many of us use only two to three brushes in a painting.  I encourage you to practice and pull out all your brushes and see what each one can do. Variety is key.  Allow your art to stand out and recorded in your brush strokes.  

While creating the  above finished painting, I used at least 8- 10 different brushes and a palette knife .  

The above painting was created with Golden acrylic paints and inks on canvas.

Until next time.

Happy Painting!

Ursula

Autumn

Autumn, a time of change and acceptance.  

 It's always a little sad and I feel slightly melancholic when the seasons change from summer to fall.  The term "fall" stems from the leaves or "falling of the leaves". 

There have been several changes in my schedule and studio along with the change of the season.

I am very excited to share a four week in person class I will be teaching at The Springfield Art Museum.  We will be delving deeper into the wonderful world of watercolor.  I love the way watercolor can capture a particular light and mood.  The fluidity and transparency of the medium.  The unexpected and convenience of a hands on experience.

For more information:  https://www.sgfmuseum.org/161/Adult-Studio-Classes

Experimenting with gouache has been so much fun.  I often add some gouache to my watercolor painting, so I purchased a Holbein Gouache set and had fun experimenting.  Often times, adding some watercolor to the mix.  I had a few mini hard boards and primed them with clear gesso before painting.  Changing and experimenting with new paints and methods is always beneficial and fun.  Gaining knowledge from one medium can give insight to other mediums and techniques.  

Joining a local gallery has been in the back of my mind for some time.  So, Formed Gallery in Springfield, Mo. was kind enough to accept my work.  My family and I went to the first Friday art walk together last week.  There are so many beautiful pieces of art in the gallery, from jewelry, pottery, paintings, and more. https://www.formedgallery.com/

A few more changes are coming and I am excited and trusting that this new season will bring growth, flexibility, strength and progress.

I love this scripture verse and know that through these new challenges, I need to trust the Lord whole heartily.

Until next time:

Ursula xo

Fun With Gouache

 I recently purchased a set of Holbein gouache paints and a few small 6 x6 hardboard panels.  Taking a break from watercolors,  I fell in love with these paints and this medium.

This was my first attempt and really enjoyed the process.  I shared it on my Youtube channel so you can see the progress and paint along with me.

 It is quick drying and requires no mediums.  I did prep my board with clear gesso before I began to paint.  Because it is water based, you will always see the color underneath.  That is what I like about it!  

Gouache is an opaque watercolor, consisting of natural pigment, water and a binding agent. It is similar to watercolor and may be used alongside watercolors.  I have added gouache to several of my watercolor paintings through the years.  It is most commonly used by illustrators, graphic designers and for commercial use.

Henri Matisse used gouache on white paper during his last decade.  It has been widely used during the last 12 centuries.

I do love the consistency of the Holbein brand of gouache.  

Here is a little peek at the last one I painted a few hours ago and inspired by Matisse style of painting.

If you have tried it, let me know your thoughts.  

Have fun!

Until next time.

Ursula xo

Brighter Days Ahead

 

The Iris reminds us of Faith and Hope.  After a long winter,

they begin to bloom as a promise of brighter days ahead.

My garden is full of these lovely purple Iris and it does make me smile even on a rainy spring day.

I don't know about you, but hope is an eternal longing in my soul.. 

 The Bible gives us many references of hope and defines it as; "The confident expectation of and longing for the promised blessing of righteousness.

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a HOPE"

You can paint this little Iris along with me on my YouTube channel.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IfwYUSL7bjA&t=393s

There are brighter days ahead!

Happy Painting!

Ursula xo

Time to get back into the swing of things!

 We spent most of February and part of March in Florida.  Our annual trip on the beautiful beach of Navarre.  We were gone a little over 4 weeks. Our weather was so beautiful, the best it has been since we started this tradition 8 years ago.

Someone asked me what my favorite part of the trip was and I have to say, walking on the beach.  We walked at least 2-4 miles at a time.  Such a calming effect as your feet touch the warm sand and the sound of the waves lesson all your anxieties. And, of course it is always a treat to find a few new shells!  

I loved the little birds and visitors along our walks.  I think I will have to paint this little guy.  

Our condo sits between the gulf and Santa Rosa sound.  We had a gorgeous panoramic view of both.  

Stunning sunsets at night and beautiful sunrises in the morning.

It's taken me a while to get back into the groove of things here at home.  Although, it is always good to be back home again.  

Cheers!!

Ursula

P.S.  New YouTube watercolor.  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1ibRWS4cbU&t=970s

Happy February!

 Not only is is Valentine's month, but it is also my birthday month.

                                              To celebrate,  I painted this sweet rose watercolor.   

Join me on my YouTube channel and paint along......

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_Vq0sGMGZg&t=25s

Happy Valentin's Day!

💓 Ursula 

Studio Insights

One of my New Year goals was to seek direction and spend more time in my studio.

Spending time exploring the beauty of watercolors.  It is not a medium to be totally manipulated and controlled.  

And, that of course is  the challenge and beauty of this medium.

I have been working with different papers, painting larger than I am comfortable with and watching other watercolor artists and their approach.  

I love to watch the colors mingle and create their own shapes and images.  You can create a transparency and glow that one cannot achieve in other art forms.

I titled this one "Missing the Beach today". It was fun to relive a memory from my photos as I applied each layer.  

Allowing drying time in between.  After I sketched the painting onto my 140lb cold pressed watercolor paper, I used Frisket to the white areas of the ocean and to the figure. Also, splattering some onto the areas of the sand. 

I am allowing it to sit a while and see if there is anything else needed.  It is always good to step away from any painting as not to over work it.  Something I have to keep myself from doing! 

I primarily used Daniel Smith and Holbein watercolor tube paints.  I love the properties of both!

It was also the perfect time to try out my new porcelain palette and Silver brushes I received for Christmas!

Until next time..

Ursula

xo

Folow me on YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCadJh6q94NzW2e6KP54eeuQ

Happy New Year!

" Celebrate endings-for they proceed new beginnings" - Jonathan Lockwood Hole

I took the last of my Christmas decorations down this morning.  Holding onto the beauty of the season as long as I can.  

It is also a time for a fresh start, a clean slate so to speak.  A time to rearrange my decor and possibly pass on a few items that do not work any longer.  I enjoy this time of organization and renewal.

What are your plans for this new year?  

I love this scripture in Jeremiah 29:11

" For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord.  Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

As 2023 begins, I am trusting in this promise. 

Each year I choose a word for the new year.  I chose the word "Direction" for this year.  Not only in my art, but in every aspect of my life.  

Direction is described as the path that something takes, the path that must be taken to reach a specific place.  I know God has more for each of us if we just trust His direction.

Wishing you a year filled with new beginnings.....

Until next time.

Ursula

xo

Creativity

 What does this word mean to you?  

I don't know how many times people have told me they aren't creative.  But, what does the word really mean? 

The dictionary defines it as bringing something into existence.  Or, cause something to happen as a result of one's actions.  

We are all "created" to create, to bring something into existence.  Whether it be raising our children, hitting a ball, cooking a meal,  navigating through a problem,  communication, putting an outfit together, decorating our home, parenting and so on.

We use our creativity even if we aren't aware.  

Stephen Brewster says to "Create something new everyday".  the Bible references creativity 41 times'!

Exodus 35:31-35  God fills us with His Spirit to do creative and artistic things for his glory.  

"He instills in each of us our own unique and distinct creative expression". 

I think many times, we (myself included). are afraid to step out and use the creative gifts God has given us. 

This has hit home with me.  If we step up and out of our comfort zone, and tap into our own creativity, think what we can achieve.  We can achieve so much more if we embrace what the creator has given us.

By using our creative gifts, they reflect who we are and who He is.

Embrace your creativity and open your heart to new experiences.

Until next time...

Ursula xo

Ahh Summer!

 I hope you are well and enjoying some summer fun.  

June has been busy and I find myself craving the outdoors even though it has been extremely hot here in Missouri.  

Reflections of summer have inspired my work this past month.  My studio reflects images of summer outings, birds, flowers and more.  

I was honored to be in a couple of art showings this month where summer and nature were the theme.

Sunflowers and Watermelons will be the theme for my next in person class @ Splatter Art Studio here in Springfield, Mo.  

Sunflowers depict happiness, optimism, strength, adoration and honesty. Who doesn't need more of that in their life?  This flower surpasses all others in terms of its universal power to bring joy to people.

Watermelons and summer are synonymous.  Bringing back sweet memories of eating watermelons on a hot summer day.

Enjoy your summer to the fullest!

Ursula

https://www.splatterartstudio.com/upcoming-events/2022/6/13/celebrate-summer-with-sunflowers-watermelons-and-acrylic-paints

Change is the end result of true learning.

" The beautiful thing about learning is that nobody can take it away from you."  B.B. King

The above watercolor is one of the recent classes I attended. My painting looks somewhat different than the original but that is what makes our work uniquely ours.

 I enjoy watching someone else's brush moving across the paper or canvas.  I can get lost in each brush stroke, even how they hold their brush is mesmerizing!  Learning new color combinations and techniques are valuable in our artistic journey.  

If I were to take this photo and paint from it, I would have approached it in an entirely different manner than the instructor.  We get caught up in our own ideas and ways of doing our paintings.   I learned so much from each of the instructors I studied under.  

At times we instinctively do something without realizing why we did it that way.  Not only is learning a reminder of things we have learned along the way, but it reinforces what we know!

This week is dedicated to drawing.  Something I do not do on a regular basis and is the foundation of our art.  Grabbing my stabilo pencil, charcoal, inks, gesso and Bristol paper can be somewhat intimidating.

I have enjoyed this month of learning and stretching myself as an artist.  Reinforcing what I do know and replacing bad habits with new ideas and techniques.

Learning through art enriches our creativity, confidence and focus.  

Until next time;

Ursula

xo

https://ivynewport.com/creative-teachers-explore/ursula-wollenberg

"When you do things from your soul, you feel a river in you, a joy"

 Don't loose a moment, just follow you heart.

Earlier this year, I wrote about my word;   "Reimagined"

So, I have dedicated this month for learning and growing as an artist.  I have thrown myself into various classes, some pushing the boundaries and others just for fun.  

All three of the classes have been in watercolor.  Two were online and one was in person.  I struggled with the concept in the in person class.  Looking around at others that seemed to jump right in and create a lovely painting without fear.  Just enjoying the process and not worrying about the outcome.  Even though I struggled a bit, I did learn and will apply these concepts to my future work.  

We get caught up in our way of doing things and sometimes change is difficult.  

I love this quote from philosopher, Henri Bergson.

"To exist is to change, to change is to mature, to mature is to go on creating oneself endlessly."

As I embrace this new year, I want to challenge myself as an artist.  Continuing to learn and grow, learn and do what I love.  Creating rivers of joy and to follow my heart along the way.

Allowing myself to adapt and become more flexible.  Open myself up to new ideas, encourage others and to become a better version of myself.

I will continue to take classes from my mentors.  Mentorship enables you to tap into your strengths, encouragement and support for growth.

I have a few more classes coming up and look forward to more inspiration.

Unit next time;

Ursula

xo

p.s.  Check out a few of my classes :

https://ivynewport.com/creative-teachers-explore/ursula-wollenberg

https://www.mysticspringstudios.com/art-walk-alchemy-2022-ursula-wollenberg

Life is a flower...

Life is a flower; spreading happiness wherever one finds it!

 Holding onto the last bits of summer.  Finding joy and comfort as I painted this watercolor still-life.  

I thought I would share my progress.  This was painted with Daniel Smith and Holbein watercolors on 140 lb. watercolor paper.  I taped the edges and painted this on my new watercolor easel.  I love that I can take it everywhere!  

  I first sprayed the paper with a mister before I began to add color and shape.

I added a small amount of Titanium White Gouache to a few of the flowers.  I also applied gouache to the vase and foreground with a palette knife.

And, always add splatters!

Ready to frame and go to a new home!

Until next time;

Ursula xo

Welcome September!

" More Color can speak to the soul in a thousand different ways. "  Oscar Wilde.

Someone just recently asked me if the colors of fall inspired my creativity.  I love the changing of the leaves and all the colors of fall.  But in my heart, I still yearn for the colors and warmth of summer.

I don't know about you, but summer has gone by too quickly.  

 I guess this quote sums it up:

"By All these lovely tokens September days are here, with summer's best of weather and autumn's best of cheer!"  Helen Hunt Jackson

Cheers to September!

Ursula xo

P.S.  I am honored to be teaching in Art Walk Alchemy again this coming year.  We have a great line up of teachers!  Early bird pricing is available and we also have a payment plan.  For more information, visit:

https://www.mysticspringstudios.com/art-walk-alchemy-2022-ursula-wollenberg

                          Dive into life and make a splash!

For the last couple of months I have been wading into my watercolors.  Learning new techniques and elements to add to my paintings. 

Working with "negative painting, adding paint around the subject matter.  Creating a more dark value in the background and forming floral shapes with the white of the paper and light under painting.  Sometimes what you Don't paint, can be just as important as what you Do paint.

The above painting was created with wet on wet as well.  Placing clear water before applying the paint.

While the paint was wet, I blew the paint out with a drinking straw.  A fun way to add movement and surprises to a painting.

When the painting was dry, I added a stencil to some of the white areas with fluid acrylic paint.  

This painting will be part of an online auction beginning June 2nd through the 3.  Soul Sisters United Art Collective.  The theme for the event is titled:  Splashes of Life.  

Join us each month and make a splash!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/soulsistersunited

Until next time...

Ursula xo

Making the most of our time

"Creativity involves breaking out of established patterns in order to look at things in a different way."  Edward de Bono

"I don't even know how to stay at home..."  A direct quote from a friend of mine after talking about our current situation with the Coronavirus outbreak.  Her statement surprised me and made me rather sad.

I love the above quote as it directs our minds and daily habits to think differently.   

Creative thinking means looking at something in a new way, it is the definition of thinking outside the box,  a way of looking at problems or situations from a fresh perspective.  

What are you doing to be more creative during this new normal?  I for one plan on doing some spring cleaning, decorating, trying new recipes, reading, and of course spending more time in my home studio!  Are you thinking creatively?

There are many on line painting classes and art groups to join to spark that creativity within.

I have a new on line class opening up on March 27, 2020.  I loved creating this on line class; Painting Outside the Lines" for you.  As aways, creating opens ones eyes to new ways of creating and painting.  Student interaction helps us all grow, learning fun and interesting things from each other. 

This was created on The Ivy Newport network and link can be found to the right of this page,, Life is Art section.  

As well as my first online class, Floral Expressions.

Or join me on Patreon!  A fun ongoing page of art, inspiration and video lessons.  

Whatever you do, stay well!  Think outside the box, paint outside the lines and open new ways to your creative path.

Ursula

xo