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My First Mini Course is Here: Botanical Silhouettes 🌱
Two years ago, I painted a silhouette of my daughter filled with blooming botanicals—and had no idea how much that single painting would change the course of my creative journey. At the time, it was simply a personal piece, created with love as I watched my daughter start to grow into the little lady she was starting to become. I decided to share this painting on my Instagram and was blown away by the reaction! Something about this painting seem to resonate with my followers: fellow moms, teachers, art admirers and soon after, I found myself sharing the process with others through my first ever adult art workshops. These workshops then morphed into online workshops and before I knew it, I had taught this lesson to hundreds of people—from fellow teachers to complete beginners—each one creating beautiful, heartfelt works of art inspired by someone (or some pet) they love. Teaching this lesson to other adults who have maybe always bee interested in art by rarely made the time for it lit a spark in me: I loved teaching adults. I loved teaching busy moms. I loved that I could create a special time for each of my attendees to look inward, focus on their own joy, practice and experience. I was also surprise to learn that after 15 years of teaching kids under the age of 12, that I could experience all of the same feelings of price and joy that filled my cup when teaching kids- but on a peer to peer scale. After teaching my Growth Mindset workshop over 10 times both in person and online, I am now thrilled to share that my first ever mini course is officially here! Introducing: 🌿Botanical Silhouettes: A Growth Mindset Mini Course 🌿 This self-paced course invites you to create a meaningful silhouette painting of a loved one using gouache, layered with plants and symbols of growth. It’s inspired by the idea that, like nature, we are constantly growing—especially when we allow ourselves to slow down, get creative, and make space for learning. What’s Included: ✔️ A detailed supply list (perfect for beginners)✔️ Pre-recorded video tutorials you can pause and rewatch anytime✔️ A Plant Painting Guide to build your confidence with gouache✔️ A step-by-step presentation that breaks down the whole process Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, this project is a beautiful reminder that creativity and growth go hand in hand. I hope it brings you the same sense of peace, joy, and connection that it brought me when I painted that first silhouette of my daughter. One thing I know is that when you finally say yes to your creative side, so much more than your art will start to grow. If you're interested in creating your own gouache masterpiece, click here to begin! 🌿 Happy making!
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Winter Wonderland: 7 Family-Friendly Events at Carnegie Museum of Art
As the chill of winter sets in, there's no better time to warm your heart with family-friendly festivities at the Carnegie Museum of Art. As a family, we absolutely love Carnegie museum of art! So to learn that there are so many family-friendly programs and events happening this winter makes our holiday season extra special! From captivating exhibitions to hands-on workshops, the museum is ready to embrace the season with open arms. Here are seven delightful events & programs at Carnegie Museum of Art that promise to make your winter memorable. Winter Exhibition Celebration (December 14, 6–8 p.m.) Kick off the winter season with a festive bang! On December 14, the museum invites you to a Winter Exhibition Celebration. Enjoy free admission from 6 to 8 p.m. and revel in a night filled with music, community, and conversation. Explore the latest exhibitions, including Unsettling Matter, Gaining Ground, Amie Siegel: Panorama, Pittsburgh Satellite Reef, The Milton and Sheila Fine Collection and warm up in the Hall of Sculpture with a special roundtable toast and a musical call and response. It's an evening the whole family can enjoy! Click here to learn more! Sounds for the Season Live Musical Performances (Dec. 9, Dec. 23, 2023, Jan. 13, Jan. 27, 2024): Delight in the sounds of the season in the Hall of Architecture among the Carnegie Trees with live musical performances by friends of Carnegie Museum of Art! Gather the family for one or all performances and enjoy a diverse range of music celebrating the cultural traditions of the season. Talented musicians and performers, including River City Brass Band, Camerata 33, Renaissance City Choir, and Taktouka Band, will grace the stage. These enchanting performances will take place on Saturday, Dec. 9, and Dec. 23, 2023, as well as Jan. 13 and Jan. 27, 2024, at 2 p.m. Best of all, no registration is required, and the performances are free with museum admission. Immerse yourself in the harmonious spirit of the holidays amidst the beauty of the Carnegie Trees! Click here to learn more! Carnegie Trees (Nov. 18, 2023 – Jan. 7, 2024) Step into a winter wonderland in the Hall of Architecture with the annual Carnegie Trees installation. Admire towering Fraser fir trees adorned with festive baubles, celebrating the theme "Wintry Days & Frosty Nights." Since 1961, this signature event has marked the beginning of Pittsburgh's holiday season. Don't miss the chance to be enchanted by this dazzling display! Click here to learn more about these gorgeous trees! Day Off at the Museum (Nov. 27, Dec. 28, 29, 2023, Jan. 15, 2024, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.) Keep the kids entertained during their days off from school with "Day Off at the Museum." Young artists aged 6 through 10 can explore the galleries for inspiration and engage in hands-on art-making. From painting to sculpting, the museum provides a creative space for kids to express themselves and learn new techniques. Register now for a day of artistic exploration! Click the link here to learn more! Make a Gift of Art Workshops (Dec. 7, 6–8 p.m.; Dec. 17, 2–4 p.m.) Join local artists for special gift-making workshops at the museum. Create unique, handmade artworks under the guidance of Pittsburgh artists Laurie Trok and Marcè Nixon-Washington. With all supplies included, participants will craft personalized gifts that are perfect for the holiday season. Please be sure to register in advance for these engaging and festive workshops (click here to learn more). Neapolitan Presepio and Art Chats (Nov. 18 – Jan. 7, 2024) Dive into a centuries-old tradition with the Neapolitan presepio. Witness an elaborate nativity scene featuring miniature figures that recreate 18th-century life in Naples. Join Art Chats on Saturdays and Sundays from Dec. 2–24 (10:30–11:30 a.m.) to learn more about this captivating display. It's a perfect opportunity for the family to explore the rich history and artistry on display. To learn more about Art Chats, click here. Holiday Shopping at the Museum Gift Shop Of course, we can't forget to explore the treasure trove of the museum's incredible gift shop! Whether you're searching for unique gifts, holiday ornaments, or art-inspired keepsakes, the Carnegie Museum of Art Store and Custom Prints Store have you covered. Be sure to take advantage of special promotions both in-store and online, offering a wide selection of thoughtful and artistic gifts for everyone on your list. You can support the museum while finding the perfect holiday treasures to spread joy among family and friends. Our current favorites in the gift shop are the new line of merch ( I love my white crewneck!) We can't get enough of the new soft and cozy apparel that showcase the new branding and bright colors of the Carnegie Museum of Art. To check out the merchandise, click here! This winter be sure to create lasting memories with your loved ones at the Carnegie Museum of Art. Whether you're exploring the Neapolitan presepio, marveling at the Carnegie Trees, or getting hands-on with art-making, there's something for every member of the family. There's no better way to embrace the warmth of the season by making the most of these family-friendly events. Visit carnegieart.org to register and learn more about the exciting winter lineup! I hope you and your family enjoy the Carnegie Museum of Art as much as we do! Cheers!
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Free Drawing Prompts: What to Draw When You Can't Think of What to Draw
If you're looking to create more art but struggle with ideas of what to actually draw, look no further. In this blog you will find access to over 20 drawing prompts geared towards adults (or really people of all ages) who are looking for a boost to jump start their creativity!
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Art with Mrs. E Workshops!
Join me for my first art workshop with a project titled "Growth Mindset". An exploration of gouache paint and botanicals to make a silhouette painting of a loved one.
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