Memorable May

In February, I joined an online academy for botanical art taught by Helen Cousins. By May, I was nominated Member of the Month! 

I’ve been working hard on tutorials and have picked up new skills along the way! Having Helen as a teacher has been invaluable. I understand the importance of a good teacher, before joining the academy I lacked direction and how to go about getting better.
The membership has given me a community of likeminded artists to connect with, a way to tangibly measure my progress and new inspiring tutorials to practice my skills on. I’ve decided to work towards her Conscious Creativity miles stone which includes completing 10 full tutorials. I feel up to the challenge!

So far, I’ve completed her fundamental courses for colour, botanical art and watercolour techniques. These courses have formed the foundation to my watercolour skills and covered the following areas:

• Colour theory and mixing 

• Techniques for stretching cotton paper

• Watercolour Techniques, Wet-on-wet, Dry brushing

• Perfecting Smooth washes

• Putting it all together to paint a Tulip

I could write a book on everything I’ve learned! I feel like a sponge taking everything in. My heart soared even more when Helen nominated me as Member of the Month for May 2025. This award is given to a member for their work and encouragement of others along with a voucher to an independent art shop of their choice. This community has filled my life with the ability to connect with other aspiring botanical artists, feel inspired to continue creating and a safe space to form my own creative discipline through hard work, perseverance, and practice..one brush stroke at a time!