The Responsible Artist

In 3rd grade I received an F in Social Studies, because I refused to color the pictures. Somehow, despite this bad beginning I still grew to love art. I took a few classes in middle and high school, but the class that really gave me my foundation was one that I still don't know how I managed to find.

The summer after my senior year I found information about a watercolor class that was being offered at Caughlin Ranch, an upscale neighborhood community center. I paid the fee and bought the supplies, blowing almost all of my discretionary money. I still remember walking into the studio loft and having the breath knocked out of me at the sight. It was a huge, light, airy attic room with skylights, sinks, tables and counters full of art products and potential.

Our teacher taught all the different techniques of watercolors, and I can honestly say that I learned more from her than I did in any of my future college courses. I know that watercolors are not considered a serious media in the art world, but they are my favorite. I love the vibrant colors and each painting is a surprise, because water is unpredictable. When you lay down the color you don't know how they will blend and look once they dry, so you have to be bold and hope for the best. My favorite watercolorist of all time is Winslow Homer. He had such vibrant colors despite the unforgiving nature of watercolors.

The moment I tried watercolors I was hooked.

During my college years I was two classes away from a minor in art, and even had a few people pay me to paint their portraits. Eventually I was married and trying to think of something nice to give Nathan for Christmas that was $20 or less. I fell upon the idea of painting a picture of Brandon for Christmas. That started a tradition, and I painted one of all our babies.

The next several years, I was in a couple of art guilds and displayed a few of my paintings and even had an opportunity to meet Al Rounds, my favorite LDS watercolorist.

As is the case with all responsible women, my free time to pursue my own interests dwindled when other responsibilities took it's place. I came to the point that I had to choose between music and art, and music won out.

This week I found myself with new baby, not having painted a single thing but house walls for the past 5 years. I was a little fearful of painting Danielle. I was nervous that being so out of practice, I would fall flat on my face. I'm happy to report that it wasn't too bad.


It's not Winslow Homer or Al Rounds, but it's not bad for The Responsible Woman.