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One of my favorite art spaces in the world has to be Crystal Bridges. We are unbelievably lucky to have a place like this tucked into Northwest Arkansas—where the architecture is just as breathtaking as the art itself, and the surrounding nature feels like part of the exhibit.

With the new expansion opening THIS WEEKEND (*excited squeal*), it felt like the perfect time to make Crystal Bridges the next piece in my Northwest Arkansas landmark series.

I’m continuing to draw these pieces as a single uninterrupted line, which definitely proved challenging here. Crystal Bridges has so many striking architectural details, and the hardest part was figuring out how to simplify it without losing the essence of what makes it feel so iconic.

Honestly, no one expects Arkansas to be quietly hiding a world-class art museum, so maybe let’s keep that between us… I like being able to find parking close to the entrance.

But seriously...anyone else super excited to check out the new 114,000-square-foot expansion? Are you an opening weekend person, or are you waiting for the crowds to die down first?

#CrystalBridges #NorthwestArkansas
#ArkansasArtist #NWAArt #BentonvilleArkansas

One of my favorite art spaces in the world has to be Crystal Bridges. We are unbelievably lucky to have a place like this tucked into Northwest Arkansas—where the architecture is just as breathtaking as the art itself, and the surrounding nature feels like part of the exhibit.

With the new expansion opening THIS WEEKEND (*excited squeal*), it felt like the perfect time to make Crystal Bridges the next piece in my Northwest Arkansas landmark series.

I’m continuing to draw these pieces as a single uninterrupted line, which definitely proved challenging here. Crystal Bridges has so many striking architectural details, and the hardest part was figuring out how to simplify it without losing the essence of what makes it feel so iconic.

Honestly, no one expects Arkansas to be quietly hiding a world-class art museum, so maybe let’s keep that between us… I like being able to find parking close to the entrance.

But seriously...anyone else super excited to check out the new 114,000-square-foot expansion? Are you an opening weekend person, or are you waiting for the crowds to die down first?

#CrystalBridges #NorthwestArkansas
#ArkansasArtist #NWAArt #BentonvilleArkansas

Lately, I haven't had the time for as much physical painting, so I’ve been focusing on mini-bursts of mess-free creative work instead. It’s been nice to still make art, even if the process looks a little different.

I’ve been continuing my Northwest Arkansas continuous line series, and the newest piece is inspired by Johnson Mill. Quaint, historic, and tucked into one of my favorite small towns, the mill was originally built in 1835 and is said to be the oldest continuously operating business site in Arkansas. Today, it’s part of Inn at the Mill, carrying its history into a new chapter.

Johnson may only have around 3,700 people, but it has a charm that deserves to be remembered. I wanted to create something that honors this little corner of the Ozarks and its lasting character.

#JohnsonArkansas #NorthwestArkansas
#ArkansasHistory #MadeInArkansas
#HistoricPlaces

Lately, I haven't had the time for as much physical painting, so I’ve been focusing on mini-bursts of mess-free creative work instead. It’s been nice to still make art, even if the process looks a little different.

I’ve been continuing my Northwest Arkansas continuous line series, and the newest piece is inspired by Johnson Mill. Quaint, historic, and tucked into one of my favorite small towns, the mill was originally built in 1835 and is said to be the oldest continuously operating business site in Arkansas. Today, it’s part of Inn at the Mill, carrying its history into a new chapter.

Johnson may only have around 3,700 people, but it has a charm that deserves to be remembered. I wanted to create something that honors this little corner of the Ozarks and its lasting character.

#JohnsonArkansas #NorthwestArkansas
#ArkansasHistory #MadeInArkansas
#HistoricPlaces

10 years married and we still love to go on adventures together.

Vancouver was stupid pretty. 10/10 would eat sushi and enjoy mountain views again. 🇨🇦🫡

#Vancouver #CanadaTrip #AnniversaryTrip #CouplesWhoTravel

:

10 years married and we still love to go on adventures together.

Vancouver was stupid pretty. 10/10 would eat sushi and enjoy mountain views again. 🇨🇦🫡

#Vancouver #CanadaTrip #AnniversaryTrip #CouplesWhoTravel

:

48 hours in Seattle. No rushing—somehow, everything.

We stepped off the train a little rumpled and very ready, trading Ozark pace for a few days by the water in Seattle.

Shaun’s aunt and uncle, Jim and Patti, along with my longtime friend Karen, took us all over the city—an inside track we wouldn’t have found on our own.

We decided early: no hurrying. And still, we managed to see and do so much.

In honor of the kids, we packed four of their stuffed animals and let them tag along. They showed up everywhere—our way of bringing the kids into the trip with us.

Jim, Patti, Karen—thank you for taking such good care of us and showing us your Seattle.

#madamartansas #seattlewashington #slowtravel #ozarkartist #processoverperfection familyrhythms

48 hours in Seattle. No rushing—somehow, everything.

We stepped off the train a little rumpled and very ready, trading Ozark pace for a few days by the water in Seattle.

Shaun’s aunt and uncle, Jim and Patti, along with my longtime friend Karen, took us all over the city—an inside track we wouldn’t have found on our own.

We decided early: no hurrying. And still, we managed to see and do so much.

In honor of the kids, we packed four of their stuffed animals and let them tag along. They showed up everywhere—our way of bringing the kids into the trip with us.

Jim, Patti, Karen—thank you for taking such good care of us and showing us your Seattle.

#madamartansas #seattlewashington #slowtravel #ozarkartist #processoverperfection familyrhythms

Last week I stepped away from painting and got on a train from Chicago to Seattle—48 hours to celebrate our 10-year anniversary and kick off a 10-day trip without children.

We lived in a tiny room with bunk beds and spent all our time reading, sleeping, eating chex mix, and looking out the window. They let us out periodically to be fed, like very polite livestock. It was delightful.

Would recommend for anyone in need of sleep, scenery, and remembering what uninterrupted sentences feel like.

#TrainTravel
#AmtrakLife
#AnniversaryTrip
#NoKidsTrip

Last week I stepped away from painting and got on a train from Chicago to Seattle—48 hours to celebrate our 10-year anniversary and kick off a 10-day trip without children.

We lived in a tiny room with bunk beds and spent all our time reading, sleeping, eating chex mix, and looking out the window. They let us out periodically to be fed, like very polite livestock. It was delightful.

Would recommend for anyone in need of sleep, scenery, and remembering what uninterrupted sentences feel like.

#TrainTravel
#AmtrakLife
#AnniversaryTrip
#NoKidsTrip

Daughter date at the Fayetteville Gallery Hop!

We made it to 5 out of 7 stops—I fell in love with the art, she fell in love with the free snacks. Win-win.

Daughter date at the Fayetteville Gallery Hop!

We made it to 5 out of 7 stops—I fell in love with the art, she fell in love with the free snacks. Win-win.

He has risen!

He has risen!

This piece started with a simple constraint: hold both the crucifixion and the resurrection in a single work.

It’s built as a reversible image. Turn it, and the story changes. The structure is inspired by stained glass—framing each moment with intention, light, and order.

One direction traces the path to the cross: the Last Supper, the arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane, and finally the crucifixion between two criminals. An eclipsed sun sits overhead, casting that unnatural darkness across the scene.

Turn it, and the story continues. The tomb breaks open with light from the risen Christ bursting outward. The disciples go out to fish and are called to the shore, where Jesus cooks fish for them over a fire. This is followed by the ascension—Christ rising, surrounded by witnesses.

Same piece. Two orientations. One continuous story.

#MadamArtansas
#Artansas
#ArkansasArtist
#MadeInArkansas
#EasterArt

This piece started with a simple constraint: hold both the crucifixion and the resurrection in a single work.

It’s built as a reversible image. Turn it, and the story changes. The structure is inspired by stained glass—framing each moment with intention, light, and order.

One direction traces the path to the cross: the Last Supper, the arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane, and finally the crucifixion between two criminals. An eclipsed sun sits overhead, casting that unnatural darkness across the scene.

Turn it, and the story continues. The tomb breaks open with light from the risen Christ bursting outward. The disciples go out to fish and are called to the shore, where Jesus cooks fish for them over a fire. This is followed by the ascension—Christ rising, surrounded by witnesses.

Same piece. Two orientations. One continuous story.

#MadamArtansas
#Artansas
#ArkansasArtist
#MadeInArkansas
#EasterArt

Finished now, but this is a look at what my Easter piece looked like while it was still in progress. I am calling this one “Turn & See”

Since it’s Good Friday, it felt like a good day to share at least part of it. It’s designed to show both the crucifixion and the resurrection—just depends how you look at it.

Official debut tonight!

#MadamArtansas
#Artansas
#ArkansasArtist
#MadeInArkansas
#EasterArt

Finished now, but this is a look at what my Easter piece looked like while it was still in progress. I am calling this one “Turn & See”

Since it’s Good Friday, it felt like a good day to share at least part of it. It’s designed to show both the crucifixion and the resurrection—just depends how you look at it.

Official debut tonight!

#MadamArtansas
#Artansas
#ArkansasArtist
#MadeInArkansas
#EasterArt

Not ready to show the full design yet, but here’s a peek at where it started.

I’ve been working with the idea of reversible images—one scene that shifts depending on how you look at it. With that in mind, I set out to sketch moments leading up to the crucifixion that could also reflect moments after the resurrection when flipped.

This was the first one that clicked.

Right side up, it’s a crowd in the garden at Gethsemane—torches in hand, just before they arrest Jesus and condemn him to death. Turn it, and it shifts into a scene of fish roasting over a fire from when Jesus fed his disciples breakfast after the resurrection (John 21:9-13).

They’re not directly connected scenes, but they both sit inside the Easter story. The relationship will make more sense once the full piece comes together.

This is the original sketch (now refined), but it’s where the idea first stuck.

And if the figures feel a little familiar… you’re not wrong. I may have had Monty Python and the Holy Grail on in the background while this was getting worked out…

More soon.

#MadamArtansas
#Artansas
#ArkansasArtist
#MadeInArkansas
#easterart

Not ready to show the full design yet, but here’s a peek at where it started.

I’ve been working with the idea of reversible images—one scene that shifts depending on how you look at it. With that in mind, I set out to sketch moments leading up to the crucifixion that could also reflect moments after the resurrection when flipped.

This was the first one that clicked.

Right side up, it’s a crowd in the garden at Gethsemane—torches in hand, just before they arrest Jesus and condemn him to death. Turn it, and it shifts into a scene of fish roasting over a fire from when Jesus fed his disciples breakfast after the resurrection (John 21:9-13).

They’re not directly connected scenes, but they both sit inside the Easter story. The relationship will make more sense once the full piece comes together.

This is the original sketch (now refined), but it’s where the idea first stuck.

And if the figures feel a little familiar… you’re not wrong. I may have had Monty Python and the Holy Grail on in the background while this was getting worked out…

More soon.

#MadamArtansas
#Artansas
#ArkansasArtist
#MadeInArkansas
#easterart

My church is hosting an Easter pop-up art gallery—crucifixion theme on Friday, resurrection theme on Sunday.

Instead of picking one, I knew I wanted to make one piece that could live in both spaces. Not two separate works, but one that could hold both themes.

So I created a design that would shift with orientation: one direction shows the scenes from the days leading up to the crucifixion, flipped 180° it reveals moments after the resurrection. Same piece, just viewed differently.

It’s been a challenge in the best way. But it has also required a lot more planning, more structure, and more intention behind every decision.

When thinking about how to best display it, my dad came to the rescue—he custom built a frame mount so it can actually be displayed both ways. He’s incredibly talented, and it means a lot to have that kind of support behind what I’m making.

Still in progress. Painting a lot this week.

I’ll share the final soon.

#MadamArtansas
#Artansas
#ArkansasArtist
#MadeInArkansas
#easterart

My church is hosting an Easter pop-up art gallery—crucifixion theme on Friday, resurrection theme on Sunday.

Instead of picking one, I knew I wanted to make one piece that could live in both spaces. Not two separate works, but one that could hold both themes.

So I created a design that would shift with orientation: one direction shows the scenes from the days leading up to the crucifixion, flipped 180° it reveals moments after the resurrection. Same piece, just viewed differently.

It’s been a challenge in the best way. But it has also required a lot more planning, more structure, and more intention behind every decision.

When thinking about how to best display it, my dad came to the rescue—he custom built a frame mount so it can actually be displayed both ways. He’s incredibly talented, and it means a lot to have that kind of support behind what I’m making.

Still in progress. Painting a lot this week.

I’ll share the final soon.

#MadamArtansas
#Artansas
#ArkansasArtist
#MadeInArkansas
#easterart

In case you’ve ever wondered what “behind the scenes” actually looks like… this is it!.

Kicking off a new Easter piece today—come back later this week to see how it turns out 😅

#MadamArtansas #WorkInProgress #EasterArt

In case you’ve ever wondered what “behind the scenes” actually looks like… this is it!.

Kicking off a new Easter piece today—come back later this week to see how it turns out 😅

#MadamArtansas #WorkInProgress #EasterArt

After exploring landscapes, I wanted to try something more lighthearted. These watercolor chickens were my first attempt at painting animals, and I had so much fun bringing their strong (slightly dramatic) personalities to life.

I painted these in my off-hours as a personal creative project. I work for a company that raises a lot of chickens, and at the time, my teammates and I were working through a complex challenge. As a lighthearted nod to perseverance, I created these two determined birds — a reminder that grit, humor, and teamwork carry you through even the toughest problems.

It was a playful way to channel creativity after a full day’s work and a good reminder that persistence can sometimes involve repeatedly throwing yourself at a wall until it breaks.

#watercolorpainting #animalart #chickenart #artansas #creativepractice

After exploring landscapes, I wanted to try something more lighthearted. These watercolor chickens were my first attempt at painting animals, and I had so much fun bringing their strong (slightly dramatic) personalities to life.

I painted these in my off-hours as a personal creative project. I work for a company that raises a lot of chickens, and at the time, my teammates and I were working through a complex challenge. As a lighthearted nod to perseverance, I created these two determined birds — a reminder that grit, humor, and teamwork carry you through even the toughest problems.

It was a playful way to channel creativity after a full day’s work and a good reminder that persistence can sometimes involve repeatedly throwing yourself at a wall until it breaks.

#watercolorpainting #animalart #chickenart #artansas #creativepractice

Early in my watercolor journey, I set out to paint a landscape — but instead of one scene, I painted three, all flowing together. These pieces were inspired by Isaiah 66:12 and the phrase “peace like a river.”

At the time, a close friend had just received a cancer diagnosis, and peace felt out of reach. Painting became my quiet, meditative practice — a way to hold onto hope and remember God’s faithfulness even in uncertainty.

Today, my friend is cancer-free, but these paintings still carry the memory of that season: a reminder that even in pain and uncertainty, God walks with us and is always faithful, offering peace that flows like a river.

#watercolorpainting #landscapeart #faithandart #artansas #meditativeart

Early in my watercolor journey, I set out to paint a landscape — but instead of one scene, I painted three, all flowing together. These pieces were inspired by Isaiah 66:12 and the phrase “peace like a river.”

At the time, a close friend had just received a cancer diagnosis, and peace felt out of reach. Painting became my quiet, meditative practice — a way to hold onto hope and remember God’s faithfulness even in uncertainty.

Today, my friend is cancer-free, but these paintings still carry the memory of that season: a reminder that even in pain and uncertainty, God walks with us and is always faithful, offering peace that flows like a river.

#watercolorpainting #landscapeart #faithandart #artansas #meditativeart

Since I started exploring watercolors, I’ve been curious about painting fruit. This was only my second piece, and I followed examples from a how-to book—lemons, oranges, mangos.

With my conservationist tendencies, I used a single sheet for all of them—no extra paper wasted. It took over a week, but I worked each section carefully, layering color and experimenting with pen strokes to add a bit of structure to the softness of watercolor.

Notice the texture and the way the ink interacts with the washes. It’s simple, but it taught me patience—and the quiet satisfaction of finishing something with intention.

#MadamArtansas
#Artansas
#ArkansasArtist
#MadeInArkansas
#WatercolorFruit

Since I started exploring watercolors, I’ve been curious about painting fruit. This was only my second piece, and I followed examples from a how-to book—lemons, oranges, mangos.

With my conservationist tendencies, I used a single sheet for all of them—no extra paper wasted. It took over a week, but I worked each section carefully, layering color and experimenting with pen strokes to add a bit of structure to the softness of watercolor.

Notice the texture and the way the ink interacts with the washes. It’s simple, but it taught me patience—and the quiet satisfaction of finishing something with intention.

#MadamArtansas
#Artansas
#ArkansasArtist
#MadeInArkansas
#WatercolorFruit

When I finished my continuous line drawing of the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel, I started wondering what would happen if the colors changed, but the line didn’t. Same drawing, four distinct seasons. The structure stays steady, but the mood shifts completely!

I’m adding new prints to my shop and would love your input. Which season feels right to you? And if you’re feeling extra decisive, tell me the letter of your favorite color within that palette— I respect a strong opinion about color!

#MadamArtansas #ArkansasLandmarks #BellaVistaAR #WeddingsInArkansas #MildredBCooperChapel

When I finished my continuous line drawing of the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel, I started wondering what would happen if the colors changed, but the line didn’t. Same drawing, four distinct seasons. The structure stays steady, but the mood shifts completely!

I’m adding new prints to my shop and would love your input. Which season feels right to you? And if you’re feeling extra decisive, tell me the letter of your favorite color within that palette— I respect a strong opinion about color!

#MadamArtansas #ArkansasLandmarks #BellaVistaAR #WeddingsInArkansas #MildredBCooperChapel

I like to dabble in different art styles, and one of my absolute favorites is continuous line drawing. Made famous by Pablo Picasso, it challenges you to create a single, unbroken shape. It’s equal parts frustrating and satisfying—a visual puzzle where you remove what’s unnecessary while keeping the image unmistakable.

I have been dying to use this style on another Arkansas landmark and immediately gravitated towards the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel in Bella Vista. Designed by E. Fay Jones, it’s one of those spaces where architecture and nature collide. Steel and glass rise from the trees in a dreamy way that pulls the surrounding nature into the spotlight.

Translating something so intricate into one continuous line forced me to look differently—to find the rhythm in the arches, the repetition in the beams, and the quiet geometry that holds it all together.

Structure, simplified.
Nature, uninterrupted.

Can you follow the line all the way through, from start to finish?

I’ll be adding prints of this to my website soon.

#MadamArtansas #ArkansasLandmarks #BellaVistaAR #WeddingsInArkansas #MildredBCooperChapel

I like to dabble in different art styles, and one of my absolute favorites is continuous line drawing. Made famous by Pablo Picasso, it challenges you to create a single, unbroken shape. It’s equal parts frustrating and satisfying—a visual puzzle where you remove what’s unnecessary while keeping the image unmistakable.

I have been dying to use this style on another Arkansas landmark and immediately gravitated towards the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel in Bella Vista. Designed by E. Fay Jones, it’s one of those spaces where architecture and nature collide. Steel and glass rise from the trees in a dreamy way that pulls the surrounding nature into the spotlight.

Translating something so intricate into one continuous line forced me to look differently—to find the rhythm in the arches, the repetition in the beams, and the quiet geometry that holds it all together.

Structure, simplified.
Nature, uninterrupted.

Can you follow the line all the way through, from start to finish?

I’ll be adding prints of this to my website soon.

#MadamArtansas #ArkansasLandmarks #BellaVistaAR #WeddingsInArkansas #MildredBCooperChapel

Confession: I’ve never taken a painting class.

Most of what I know has come from Google, ChatGPT, podcasts, and a lot of trial and error. My foundation is pretty elementary — but I’m working on that.

Lately I’ve been revisiting the basics, starting with gesso.

Gesso is essentially primer for canvas. It seals the surface, adds tooth for better paint adhesion, and creates a more stable ground so your paint behaves the way it should.

My canvas was already pre-primed, but I wanted to see if another layer made a difference. I picked up a basic Master’s Touch gesso to start (though I’ve heard excellent things about Liquitex and may try that next).

Applied in thin layers, brushed in one consistent direction, it creates a smoother, more even surface. Small decisions — but they compound.

I don’t just want to make something pretty.
I want to build toward museum-quality work.

And foundations are built one layer at a time.

#MadamArtansas #StudioProcess #ArtistGrowth #PaintingFoundations #Artansas

Confession: I’ve never taken a painting class.

Most of what I know has come from Google, ChatGPT, podcasts, and a lot of trial and error. My foundation is pretty elementary — but I’m working on that.

Lately I’ve been revisiting the basics, starting with gesso.

Gesso is essentially primer for canvas. It seals the surface, adds tooth for better paint adhesion, and creates a more stable ground so your paint behaves the way it should.

My canvas was already pre-primed, but I wanted to see if another layer made a difference. I picked up a basic Master’s Touch gesso to start (though I’ve heard excellent things about Liquitex and may try that next).

Applied in thin layers, brushed in one consistent direction, it creates a smoother, more even surface. Small decisions — but they compound.

I don’t just want to make something pretty.
I want to build toward museum-quality work.

And foundations are built one layer at a time.

#MadamArtansas #StudioProcess #ArtistGrowth #PaintingFoundations #Artansas

Painted my Ozark boar in red this week—because Valentine’s Day deserves something a little bolder than roses. ❤️🐗

This Razorback print is my nod to Arkansas, but with a little bit of he(art)!

This reel shows this piece in process, and red prints are available now in my shop at www.madamartansas.com!

Why settle for flowers when you can send your loved one hogs and kisses?

#ArkansasArt #Razorbacks #ValentinesDay #Hogs #NWA

Painted my Ozark boar in red this week—because Valentine’s Day deserves something a little bolder than roses. ❤️🐗

This Razorback print is my nod to Arkansas, but with a little bit of he(art)!

This reel shows this piece in process, and red prints are available now in my shop at www.madamartansas.com!

Why settle for flowers when you can send your loved one hogs and kisses?

#ArkansasArt #Razorbacks #ValentinesDay #Hogs #NWA

Earlier this week, I presented my work to the City of Springdale Planning Committee and requested approval for a Conditional Use Permit.

I walked through what I make, how I work from home, and how the business operates within zoning guidelines. The meeting was live-streamed, which made it an interesting setting to talk about art and process.

Grateful for the thoughtful questions and for the planning staff and committee members who helped guide me through the process.

Here is an excerpt of my presentation!

#MadamArtansas #ArkansasArtist #Springdale #HomeBasedBusiness #GirlBoss

Earlier this week, I presented my work to the City of Springdale Planning Committee and requested approval for a Conditional Use Permit.

I walked through what I make, how I work from home, and how the business operates within zoning guidelines. The meeting was live-streamed, which made it an interesting setting to talk about art and process.

Grateful for the thoughtful questions and for the planning staff and committee members who helped guide me through the process.

Here is an excerpt of my presentation!

#MadamArtansas #ArkansasArtist #Springdale #HomeBasedBusiness #GirlBoss

Since launching Madam Artansas a few months ago, I’ve learned a lot — not just about making art, but about what it takes to run a business legally.

One of the final items on my checklist was a business license from the City of Springdale. I applied in December… and was denied.

What I learned next mattered: because I create and operate from my home, I first needed approval for a Conditional Use Permit from the Planning Committee.

That process included an application, a floor plan showing my business would stay under 30% of my home (per zoning laws), confirmation that I wouldn’t increase neighborhood traffic, certified letters sent to adjacent property owners, and a sign placed in my yard so the broader neighborhood was informed.

It felt overwhelming at first, but I worked through it step by step (with a lot of help from the planning staff at City Hall). Once my packet was complete, I presented my case — art samples included — to the Planning Committee last night.

They voted yes.

Takeaway: building a home-based creative business often means learning systems you didn’t expect — but they exist to make space for this kind of work.

If you’re ever considering setting up a similar business, I’m happy to share what I learned.

#MadamArtansas #Artansas #ArkansasArtist #CreativeProcess #SmallBusinessJourney

Since launching Madam Artansas a few months ago, I’ve learned a lot — not just about making art, but about what it takes to run a business legally.

One of the final items on my checklist was a business license from the City of Springdale. I applied in December… and was denied.

What I learned next mattered: because I create and operate from my home, I first needed approval for a Conditional Use Permit from the Planning Committee.

That process included an application, a floor plan showing my business would stay under 30% of my home (per zoning laws), confirmation that I wouldn’t increase neighborhood traffic, certified letters sent to adjacent property owners, and a sign placed in my yard so the broader neighborhood was informed.

It felt overwhelming at first, but I worked through it step by step (with a lot of help from the planning staff at City Hall). Once my packet was complete, I presented my case — art samples included — to the Planning Committee last night.

They voted yes.

Takeaway: building a home-based creative business often means learning systems you didn’t expect — but they exist to make space for this kind of work.

If you’re ever considering setting up a similar business, I’m happy to share what I learned.

#MadamArtansas #Artansas #ArkansasArtist #CreativeProcess #SmallBusinessJourney

With Valentine’s Day coming up—and my confidence in Arkansas Razorback sports on the rise (thank you, basketball season!)—I decided to paint a red version of my boar.

This design originally started as a 14×14 digital image, but for this piece I wanted to scale it up and transfer it onto canvas to repaint it (which is way more fun for me than working in Photoshop). I resized it to 16×16, printed it on blueprint paper at Office Depot for a few dollars, and skipped the projector altogether.

Once printed, I pulled out my secret weapon: graphite paper.

If you’ve never used it, graphite paper allows you to trace a design on one surface and transfer it onto another. I place the graphite paper underneath the blueprint and trace the lines, letting the pressure transfer the design directly onto the red canvas. It captures the complexity of the original drawing without freehanding—and saves a ton of time.

By the end of this step, the canvas is ready for paint. ❤️🐗

#MadamArtansas #razorbacknation #nwaart #hogs #arttipsandtricks

With Valentine’s Day coming up—and my confidence in Arkansas Razorback sports on the rise (thank you, basketball season!)—I decided to paint a red version of my boar.

This design originally started as a 14×14 digital image, but for this piece I wanted to scale it up and transfer it onto canvas to repaint it (which is way more fun for me than working in Photoshop). I resized it to 16×16, printed it on blueprint paper at Office Depot for a few dollars, and skipped the projector altogether.

Once printed, I pulled out my secret weapon: graphite paper.

If you’ve never used it, graphite paper allows you to trace a design on one surface and transfer it onto another. I place the graphite paper underneath the blueprint and trace the lines, letting the pressure transfer the design directly onto the red canvas. It captures the complexity of the original drawing without freehanding—and saves a ton of time.

By the end of this step, the canvas is ready for paint. ❤️🐗

#MadamArtansas #razorbacknation #nwaart #hogs #arttipsandtricks

From start to finish, this is the dinosaur nursery mural—and I’m obsessed with this Dino-D2.

Blue tape, stencils, and freehanding all came together to create a playful, Star Wars–inspired design that feels personal and fun. There’s an AT-AT marching in the background, a ship flying through the clouds, and the Rebel insignia tucked on the dinosaur’s knees—small surprises that made this piece feel uniquely theirs.

I’m proud of how it turned out, and I hope you’ve enjoyed watching the process as much as I enjoyed making it.
Every mural has its own story, and this one was full of little moments of delight that made it truly special.

#Murals #StarWars #ArkansasArtist #MadeInArkansas #OzarkArt

From start to finish, this is the dinosaur nursery mural—and I’m obsessed with this Dino-D2.

Blue tape, stencils, and freehanding all came together to create a playful, Star Wars–inspired design that feels personal and fun. There’s an AT-AT marching in the background, a ship flying through the clouds, and the Rebel insignia tucked on the dinosaur’s knees—small surprises that made this piece feel uniquely theirs.

I’m proud of how it turned out, and I hope you’ve enjoyed watching the process as much as I enjoyed making it.
Every mural has its own story, and this one was full of little moments of delight that made it truly special.

#Murals #StarWars #ArkansasArtist #MadeInArkansas #OzarkArt

Stencils work especially well when you’re painting murals at a different location. Freehanding a design directly on the wall can take a long time, but I found it much easier to draw it on cardboard at home, cut it out, and then trace it on-site.

Another great thing about stencils is that once you make them, you can reuse them for other projects.

For this dinosaur mural, I made two leaf stencils, which I later reused when I repainted my office. They’re also handy for creating patterns or just visualizing a design before committing to paint.

#MadamArtansas #Artansas #ArkansasArtist #MadeInArkansas #OzarkArt

Stencils work especially well when you’re painting murals at a different location. Freehanding a design directly on the wall can take a long time, but I found it much easier to draw it on cardboard at home, cut it out, and then trace it on-site.

Another great thing about stencils is that once you make them, you can reuse them for other projects.

For this dinosaur mural, I made two leaf stencils, which I later reused when I repainted my office. They’re also handy for creating patterns or just visualizing a design before committing to paint.

#MadamArtansas #Artansas #ArkansasArtist #MadeInArkansas #OzarkArt

When designing this mural, I decided to freehand a lot of it—but with a little help from my best friend: painter’s tape.

Painter’s tape is a great tool to have on hand, and I used it a lot to speed up this piece. The volcanos had a lot of straight lines, so I taped the edges on the wall. I also knew I wanted lava trails flowing down the mountains, so I placed tape where the lava would be and painted over it.

Sometimes, pulling tape off the wall can leave jagged edges. A few tricks help prevent that:

1. Make sure the tape is fully adhered. Run your fingers along the edge to press it down.
2. Paint on top of the tape and drag your brush away from it. Painting toward the tape can let paint sneak under the edge.
3. Paint a layer of the wall color along the edge first. If paint does get under, it blends in. Once it dries, paint over it again—less chance of bleed-through.

A little tape goes a long way in keeping lines clean—and saving time.

#Murals #StarWars #ArkansasArtist #MadeInArkansas #OzarkArt

When designing this mural, I decided to freehand a lot of it—but with a little help from my best friend: painter’s tape.

Painter’s tape is a great tool to have on hand, and I used it a lot to speed up this piece. The volcanos had a lot of straight lines, so I taped the edges on the wall. I also knew I wanted lava trails flowing down the mountains, so I placed tape where the lava would be and painted over it.

Sometimes, pulling tape off the wall can leave jagged edges. A few tricks help prevent that:

1. Make sure the tape is fully adhered. Run your fingers along the edge to press it down.
2. Paint on top of the tape and drag your brush away from it. Painting toward the tape can let paint sneak under the edge.
3. Paint a layer of the wall color along the edge first. If paint does get under, it blends in. Once it dries, paint over it again—less chance of bleed-through.

A little tape goes a long way in keeping lines clean—and saving time.

#Murals #StarWars #ArkansasArtist #MadeInArkansas #OzarkArt

Inspired by a book jacket, my sister-in-law wanted green to be the main color. We took the book cover to Lowes and picked a bunch of different greens out, then returned home and taped them up on a wall for a few days.

For anyone who has ever done a painting project, you will learn quickly that colors can look very different under store lighting compared to your wall. To add complexity, colors can also change depending on the time of day. Testing perspective colors in the real space is key! Eventually, we settled on two shades of green.

For this mural, I challenged myself to use a limited color palette and rely on negative space to make the design pop. Picking the right colors from the start was crucial.

Once we chose, my father-in-law painted the first layer, and the fun began!

#Murals #StarWars #ArkansasArtist #MadeInArkansas #OzarkArt

Inspired by a book jacket, my sister-in-law wanted green to be the main color. We took the book cover to Lowes and picked a bunch of different greens out, then returned home and taped them up on a wall for a few days.

For anyone who has ever done a painting project, you will learn quickly that colors can look very different under store lighting compared to your wall. To add complexity, colors can also change depending on the time of day. Testing perspective colors in the real space is key! Eventually, we settled on two shades of green.

For this mural, I challenged myself to use a limited color palette and rely on negative space to make the design pop. Picking the right colors from the start was crucial.

Once we chose, my father-in-law painted the first layer, and the fun began!

#Murals #StarWars #ArkansasArtist #MadeInArkansas #OzarkArt

When I ran out of wall space in my own house, my sister-in-law gave me the perfect excuse to keep painting—she asked for a dinosaur nursery for her first daughter.

When I work on a project with someone, I love starting with Pinterest boards. I ask clients to send me images that speak to them, then we go through each one and ask what stands out. In this case, she fell in love with this cute wall paper and we decided to incorporate the volcanos and flowers to that the dinosaur felt a little more feminine. From there, I customized the design to fit her wall, accounting for furniture placement.

And because my sister- and brother-in-law are huge Star Wars fans, I snuck in a few surprises: an AT-AT in the background, a specific character ship silhouette in the clouds, and the Rebel insignia on the dinosaur’s knees. Small touches like these make the piece uniquely theirs.

#Murals #StarWars #ArkansasArtist #MadeInArkansas #OzarkArt

When I ran out of wall space in my own house, my sister-in-law gave me the perfect excuse to keep painting—she asked for a dinosaur nursery for her first daughter.

When I work on a project with someone, I love starting with Pinterest boards. I ask clients to send me images that speak to them, then we go through each one and ask what stands out. In this case, she fell in love with this cute wall paper and we decided to incorporate the volcanos and flowers to that the dinosaur felt a little more feminine. From there, I customized the design to fit her wall, accounting for furniture placement.

And because my sister- and brother-in-law are huge Star Wars fans, I snuck in a few surprises: an AT-AT in the background, a specific character ship silhouette in the clouds, and the Rebel insignia on the dinosaur’s knees. Small touches like these make the piece uniquely theirs.

#Murals #StarWars #ArkansasArtist #MadeInArkansas #OzarkArt

This past weekend, my wonderful husband did something a little crazy—he gave me the weekend off.

I’d planned a post-MBA getaway (2.5 years of studying while juggling a full-time job and four kids definitely called for it), but life got in the way until after the holidays.

I tend to GO GO GO, with more ideas than hours in a day. This retreat gave me a chance to slow down and think through what I really want this year—both in my personal life and my business. Coffee, sushi, and a great artist-side-hustle book helped too.

It was meant to be all planning and resting, but mostly it ended up being a lot of quiet window-staring. With four daughters, silence is a rare treat, and it was exactly what I needed.

I’m excited about the pieces coming up and can’t wait to share them with you soon.

#MadamArtansas #Artansas #ArkansasArtist #MadeInArkansas #OzarkArt

This past weekend, my wonderful husband did something a little crazy—he gave me the weekend off.

I’d planned a post-MBA getaway (2.5 years of studying while juggling a full-time job and four kids definitely called for it), but life got in the way until after the holidays.

I tend to GO GO GO, with more ideas than hours in a day. This retreat gave me a chance to slow down and think through what I really want this year—both in my personal life and my business. Coffee, sushi, and a great artist-side-hustle book helped too.

It was meant to be all planning and resting, but mostly it ended up being a lot of quiet window-staring. With four daughters, silence is a rare treat, and it was exactly what I needed.

I’m excited about the pieces coming up and can’t wait to share them with you soon.

#MadamArtansas #Artansas #ArkansasArtist #MadeInArkansas #OzarkArt

After finishing the nursery mural in 2021, I ran out of wall space… and just like that, I put the brushes down. For years, painting took a backseat.

Then in 2024, a watercolor book I received for Christmas reignited the spark. Up until that moment, I’d never used watercolor beyond those trays from Kindergarten and didn’t know a wash from a wet-on-wet. I decided to start at the very beginning and follow the book’s first exercise: blue squares all over the page that showed you how to experiment with how paint reacts with more or less water.

Halfway through, something clicked. I actually got it. Not wanting to waste the paper, I pivoted—turned the squares into an underwater scene. Inspired by another book about painting animals, I added a bunch of jellyfish.

This was my very first watercolor—and the moment I truly started painting as a fiend again. Looking back now, it’s amazing to see how far I’ve come.

#ArkansasArtist #NWACreatives #MadeInArkansas #WatercolorArt #FirstWatercolor

After finishing the nursery mural in 2021, I ran out of wall space… and just like that, I put the brushes down. For years, painting took a backseat.

Then in 2024, a watercolor book I received for Christmas reignited the spark. Up until that moment, I’d never used watercolor beyond those trays from Kindergarten and didn’t know a wash from a wet-on-wet. I decided to start at the very beginning and follow the book’s first exercise: blue squares all over the page that showed you how to experiment with how paint reacts with more or less water.

Halfway through, something clicked. I actually got it. Not wanting to waste the paper, I pivoted—turned the squares into an underwater scene. Inspired by another book about painting animals, I added a bunch of jellyfish.

This was my very first watercolor—and the moment I truly started painting as a fiend again. Looking back now, it’s amazing to see how far I’ve come.

#ArkansasArtist #NWACreatives #MadeInArkansas #WatercolorArt #FirstWatercolor

Earlier this week I shared how I scaled a mural. Today I get to share the mural itself!

Although I minored in art, my focus was mostly digital—and after graduating, I went nearly eight years without touching a paintbrush. When we found out we were expecting our third daughter, I decided to challenge myself by painting a floral mural in her nursery. That decision quietly reignited my love for painting.

I’ve always admired Rifle Paper Co., so I used one of their designs as a starting point—but made it my own. I swapped in flowers that meant something to me: yellow calla lilies and Asiatic lilies, the same blooms from our wedding (because of course yellow had to make an appearance).

Using the grid method I shared yesterday, I painted the wall color by color. Some flowers had multiple layers, which meant lots of waiting for paint to dry… and a lot of patience.

By the end, I was VERY pregnant—painting only after my twins went to bed, in short one-hour stretches, slowly chipping away until it was finished just three weeks before I gave birth.

This mural is still one of my favorite pieces I’ve ever created—not just because of how it turned out, but because of what it changed for me.

Sometimes one project is all it takes to find your way back.

#NurseryMural #Mural #ArkansasArtist #FloralMural #NWACreatives

Earlier this week I shared how I scaled a mural. Today I get to share the mural itself!

Although I minored in art, my focus was mostly digital—and after graduating, I went nearly eight years without touching a paintbrush. When we found out we were expecting our third daughter, I decided to challenge myself by painting a floral mural in her nursery. That decision quietly reignited my love for painting.

I’ve always admired Rifle Paper Co., so I used one of their designs as a starting point—but made it my own. I swapped in flowers that meant something to me: yellow calla lilies and Asiatic lilies, the same blooms from our wedding (because of course yellow had to make an appearance).

Using the grid method I shared yesterday, I painted the wall color by color. Some flowers had multiple layers, which meant lots of waiting for paint to dry… and a lot of patience.

By the end, I was VERY pregnant—painting only after my twins went to bed, in short one-hour stretches, slowly chipping away until it was finished just three weeks before I gave birth.

This mural is still one of my favorite pieces I’ve ever created—not just because of how it turned out, but because of what it changed for me.

Sometimes one project is all it takes to find your way back.

#NurseryMural #Mural #ArkansasArtist #FloralMural #NWACreatives

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