Art and watercolor painting has always been a profound part of my life, offering both creative expression and personal growth. Living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), also known as brittle bones, has presented unique challenges—but it’s also given me a distinctive perspective that defines my art.
Let me take you behind the scenes of my creative journey and share how my process for watercolor art and wildlife paintings has evolved to embrace my limitations while celebrating the beauty of nature.
Lessons That Shaped My Watercolor Art
During my school years, my art teacher Robin emphasized the importance of mastering artistic fundamentals while developing a personal style. She didn’t just teach me to paint—she taught me to see my unique perspective as a strength.
One of the most valuable lessons Robin imparted was that lying on my side while painting, a necessity due to my physical limitations with OI, wasn’t a hindrance. Instead, it was an opportunity to embrace a unique artistic angle. With her guidance, I developed techniques that allowed me to transform challenges into creativity.
Today, I apply those lessons to every painting I create, including my humpback whale piece, Taking the Plunge, from my collection Off the Hook: A Journey Beneath the Waves.
Adapting My Art for Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Living with OI requires careful adjustments to my watercolor painting process. I work primarily on smaller canvases (no larger than 9×12 inches) and compensate for my side-angle view during the initial drawing phase. It’s a challenge, but it’s also a testament to the adaptability and resilience that come with life with brittle bones.
Robin’s lesson on tackling this challenge side by side with me has stayed with me, influencing how I approach every creative endeavor.
My Creative Process
Every wildlife art piece I create starts with inspiration:
- Finding the Perfect Reference Photo
I collaborate with wildlife photographers and scour stock photo sites to find images that ignite my creativity. My computer is filled with organized folders of potential subjects, from whales to woodland creatures. - Creating a Minimalist Drawing
I begin with a simple line drawing that outlines the key features of the animal—its eyes, nose, body shape, and distinct markings. This minimalist approach provides just enough guidance for the painting phase. - The “Back to Front” Painting Method
My signature technique involves painting the background first. For Taking the Plunge, I started with vivid blues, Payne’s Gray, and Permanent White to create an oceanic depth before focusing on the humpback whale.This method not only adds depth but also creates texture, such as the ribbing on the whale or fur details on land mammals. - Adding the Finishing Touches
The final phase is my favorite: tiny, intricate details that bring the painting to life. Using a fine brush with just a few hairs, I meticulously add the nuances that make each piece extraordinary. This is where the magic happens—when the painting truly comes alive. - Signing the Painting
Once my signature is on the painting, it’s complete. I rarely rework a piece after this moment, marking the culmination of my creative journey.
Navigating Challenges and Celebrating Achievements
Painting with OI may sound straightforward when broken into steps, but it’s far from easy. It’s taken years of trial and error, patience, and persistence to refine my process.
Living with brittle bones has taught me to manage my energy, schedule breaks, and stay mindful of my limits. Burnout is a real concern, so I switch between subjects frequently to keep my creativity fresh.
Art has transformed my life, offering me a way to connect with the world through wildlife art and watercolor painting. Whether it’s a majestic humpback whale or a delicate bird, every piece reflects not only the beauty of nature but also the strength of overcoming obstacles.
Discover My Watercolor Work
Explore my collection of framed originals on Etsy, featuring over 20 stunning sea creatures from Off the Hook: A Journey Beneath the Waves. Each piece represents a celebration of nature’s wonders and the resilience of the human spirit.
Until next time, remember: Don’t let your obstacles define you—let them inspire you.