When you live with Osteogenesis Imperfecta finding activities that fuel creativity and keep boredom at bay can be life-changing. I’ve always gravitated toward any outlet that allows me to express myself and nurture my love for animals. I want to show the world that my disability doesn’t define my limits. From a young age, art became my passion. Over time, I discovered that watercolor animal art was the perfect fit for me.
Early Days: A Curiosity-Fueled Childhood
Growing up, my parents realized quickly that I was bright, talkative, and hungry for stimulation. While my peers ran around playing soccer or climbing, I was finding new ways to keep busy that didn’t involve physical strain. Painting was introduced into my life at age five, and I instantly latched onto it. It was something I could do at my own pace without constant risk to my fragile bones.
Motivation came naturally. If I wasn’t buried in watercolor pads, I was reading or tinkering with other creative pursuits. Over the years, my family continued to feed this spark of creativity—enrolling me in summer art camps, providing private art lessons, and encouraging me to try different mediums. By the time I was ten, I had sold my first painting, proving that my abilities could translate into tangible success.
Discovering Watercolor and Animals
Although I explored various forms of art, I quickly realized that watercolor spoke to me like no other medium. Something about its fluidity made sense with my own life, where I had to adapt constantly to my disability. The transparent layers and the gentle blending process allowed for subtle nuances—perfect for capturing the delicate details of animals, which I adore.
As an animal lover, I started painting pets for friends and family, eventually branching out into wildlife subjects. My passion for watercolor animal art blossomed into a fulfilling niche—transforming an “I’m bored” childhood hobby into a career. The joy I get from painting a beloved pet’s eyes or an intricate pattern on a bird’s plumage is immeasurable.
Embracing the Role of a Disabled Watercolor Artist
Having Brittle Bone Disease never stopped me from pursuing my ambitions, but it did teach me to pace myself. Physical strain can lead to painful fractures, so I balance my painting schedule to avoid overexertion. I’m grateful that art is flexible enough to accommodate these needs. As a disabled artist, my work is also a statement: talent doesn’t hinge on physical ability, and creative expression can thrive in any body.
I owe much of my growth to a supportive family who believed in the value of art and recognized my desire to depict animals in vivid, lifelike ways. While there’s a myth that artists come into their own solely by innate talent, the truth is that consistent practice, exposure to different techniques, and a strong support system are just as crucial.
Looking Ahead: More Behind-the-Scenes Adventures with Watercolor Painting
Today, I’m always looking to share more of my process—whether it’s tips on how I layer for animal fur or how I manage a painting schedule around my disability. In upcoming posts, I’ll offer more behind-the-scenes peeks into my studio, my techniques, and my insights on turning a childhood pastime into a purposeful, passionate path.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. If you’re curious about my work or want to see future projects in the making, be sure to stick around for more updates. After all, motivation thrives on community and the drive to keep creating, one brushstroke at a time.