Exploring Mixed Media: Intuitive Painting with Acrylic Inks and Graphite Pencils

In this art video, I take you on a creative journey through my process of intuitive painting. Using a mix of acrylic inks, soft pastels, graphite pencils, and gold mica ink, I explore various techniques and experiment with different textures to create a unique piece of art. Through this playful approach, I find inspiration and joy in the process of painting without the pressure to create a specific outcome. Join me on this creative adventure as we unlock the power of intuition in art. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, this video will inspire you to explore your own creativity and find joy in the process of making art.
Supplies I'm using in class (The Amazon links are affiliate links. If you use my link, I get a small commission, which will go toward my art supplies! I appreciate your support!)
Amsterdam Acrylic Inks - amzn.to/3LJ65xR
Faber-Castell Graphite Pencil Pitt Graphite Matt 14B - amzn.to/3NNQVtC
Savoir-Faire Sennelier Soft Pastels Half Stick Set 3 - amzn.to/3M6Gwbg
Sennelier Soft Pastels Half Stick Set 120 - amzn.to/3VKrwCY
SENNELIER Latour Spray Fixative - amzn.to/3pj4A1E
Princeton Artist Brush Neptune - amzn.to/3VJDPzt
**My very favorite supplies that I might mention in every video:
(Some of the links including the Amazon links are affiliate links. If you use my link, I get a small commission, which will go toward my art supplies and to support this channel! I appreciate your support 🥰)
Check out my Amazon Store for more goodies: www.amazon.com/shop/2lilowlss...
Kakimori Brass Nib - shop.stlartsupply.com/product...
Kakimori pen holder - shop.stlartsupply.com/product...
Kuretake GOLD MICA Ink - amzn.to/3oG04dt
Kuretake Gold mica Paste - amzn.to/3V2EpYZ
Raphael SoftAqua Brushes - amzn.to/3L5Bpq7
Princeton Artist Brush Neptune, Size 4 - amzn.to/3pkXPgg
Winsor & Newton Bamboo Brush - amzn.to/41U1Aa3
Posca Extra Fine Marke - amzn.to/3N7WOSd
sennelier oil pastels - amzn.to/3MPaYam
Sennelier Cardboard Oil Pastel Set, 72 Count - amzn.to/3WL5OPX
SENNELIER D'Artigny Oil Pastel Fixative - amzn.to/3X9DfMg
Sennelier - Savoir-Faire Sennelier Soft Pastels Half Stick Set - amzn.to/3YpHG69
SENNELIER Latour Spray Fixative Soft Pastels - amzn.to/3Pgsd5Z
Artist tape - amzn.to/3Hf6fLP
Art Sponges - amzn.to/3L9xf0k
Kuretake Gansai Tambi 48 Color set - amzn.to/3qaThZW
Kuretake Art Nouveau set - amzn.to/3ZWACgp
Hahnemuhle Collection 100% Cotton Watercolor Pad - amzn.to/43mlJGA
POSCA Colouring - PC-3M Warm Neutral Tones - amzn.to/423TMCr
ARTEZA Acrylic Paint, Set of 60 Colors - amzn.to/3MxPKwp
Jack Richeson Grey Matters Disposable Paper Palette, 6 x 9 - amzn.to/3IBeD8Y
Jack Richeson Grey Matters Paper Palette (50 Sheets), 9" x 12 - amzn.to/423Q7o2
Kuretake on Blick - www.dickblick.com/products/ku...
Hardboard art panels - you see me tape things down to these and they come in several different sizes: amzn.to/3C8EK3z
Painters Color Diary - 9x12 watercolor - amzn.to/3NHFCSm
Painters Color Diary - 9x12 oil - amzn.to/3NowCCv
Caran d'Ache Classic Neocolor II Water-Soluble Pastels - amzn.to/468tdPw
Dual Edge Ripper Original Watercolor Paper Deckle Edge Tool 1-24 inch - amzn.to/3qdW19m
Derwent charcoal blocks - amzn.to/3OiOzle
Liquitex BASICS Acrylic Paint Set, 48 - amzn.to/3s48vAX
Faber-Castell Graphite Pencil Pitt Graphite Matt 14B - amzn.to/443RhB0
Stencil Girl Stencils - www.stencilgirlproducts.com/
Tim Holtz Stencils - stampersanonymous.com/brands-...
The Color Cube - sarahrenaeclark.com/colorcube... (Affiliate link)
Art Prompt cards: The Color Meditation Deck - amzn.to/3IT1bxC
Where you can find me:
Website: 2lilowls.com/
Instagram -Art Account - / 2lilowlsart
Instagram - Photography Account - / 2lilowlsstudio
Facebook Page: / 2lilowls
*New Facebook Group for Art Peeps: / deniselovecreativecomm...
*You can check out all the art goodies I have for you on Skillshare here: www.skillshare.com/en/r/user/... (Affiliate link)

[@andio5151]

You are an artist. Period. You don't need to feel judged. They're artists that can't do abstracts... Think about that!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

True… I was just reminiscing on the mental restraints we place on ourselves and the things we let hold us back. 😊🥰🎨

[@Cool.Cat.Flannegan]

@@2lilowlsstudio- So true. I’m guilty 🤚

[@sandramorand3490]

Where do you get your gold mica ink please ?

[@2lilowlsstudio]

@@sandramorand3490 I link everything under the videos for you!

[@rebeccagilmore8581]

I’m a realism artist, I have been professional for 23 years. I do super realism wildlife art and I LOVE watching you and your beautiful work. I’m inspired by your freedom and joy, loose work it isn’t something I can do easily so watching you is encouraging and you teach so well.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you so much 🥰

[@michaelbusby1802]

You and your art bring me joy! I have a son with severe mental health issues and your channel helps me reduce stress! Kathy B.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

I’m so glad you are enjoying my channel. Thank you! 🥰🥰🥰

[@theartofetta]

I wish i could click LIKE multiple times because you deserve more then just one like at the time 😂 love your energy and your artwork

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you so much!! 🥰🥰🥰

[@Cool.Cat.Flannegan]

Right!? I’ve felt the same. I guess that’s what comments are for. Denise somehow helps me get out of my head to renew the freedom to just create and have fun. I’ll need to make a sign for outside my art room that says “Judgment left at door.” Or something like that.

[@IncurablyCreative]

Just wanted to say - you’re awesome. ✨⭐️✨ As someone who spent a couple of decades as a teacher, you’re a natural. Keep on doing what you’re doing. You’re making a difference.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

You’ve really made my day! Thank you! 🥰🥰🥰

[@IncurablyCreative]

@@2lilowlsstudioYou’re welcome. 🤩 Goodness knows the world needs oodles of infectious enthusiasm and positivity to balance all the judgmental shaming nonsense that goes on. Keep on keeping on. Thanks for brightening our day 😍

[@paulacunniffe4123]

I agree

[@laurawaldie456]

I could not agree more with that statement!👏

[@2lilowlsstudio]

@@paulacunniffe4123 Thank you! 🥰

[@Idalee55]

I get so excited when I see a notification for one of your videos. I love them all and I try all of your techniques.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you!! 🥰🥰🥰

[@deborahbeatty]

I love the freedom of just “what will this do”. I, too, am all about the emotional content of the abstracts. When you pour your soul into a painting, abstracts are so much more expressive. I love your Color Cube explorations. I saw your cardboard and remembered something I haven’t used in awhile… cardboard scraps or wood squares with rubber bands wrapped around them. Great for stamping.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Great idea with the rubber bands! Thank you!! 🥰

[@terriyoung2389]

Excellent pieces. I love scraping a palette knife across wet ink to see what kind of effect I can get. The edges tend to be sharper but it so fun.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Great tip!! Thank you!! 🥰

[@gfp46]

Traditional Watercolorist here, but I’m feeling your glee! Thank you for sharing❤

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thanks for watching! 🥰

[@MemorableJ]

I swap every paint and ink too and im so grateful too 🎉

[@mishitup6136]

Found your channel randomly looking for mixed media and abstract work and I dont think I have ever hit the subscribe button sooner. Love your energy, enthusiasm and I learnt so much ❤

[@2lilowlsstudio]

So glad you are here!! Thank you 🥰

[@arlenemurphy804]

Love the bottom right too. Loved watching

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! ☺️

[@SueKivley]

Great way to start a Friday morning. I've been trying to attempt the abstract and it just ends up looking like my 6 year old granddaughter did it. Practice makes perfect, I guess. I'm new at painting so I don't have "great" paints yet and not a ton of supplies. All in good time. Thanks for sharing your knowledge. Have a great weekend!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Let your inner 6 year out old to play.... we forget how to play as we get older. 😁

[@danielleb.7055]

I feel exactly the same way. Idk I just feel like a fake idk why but I do and i don't like that feeling but I am still trying and won't give up.

[@laurawaldie456]

@@danielleb.7055 Never give up, Danielle! And you are NOT a fake. That is just the negative self talk we all do to ourselves sometimes. But just play and experiment with what supplies you have and give it a go! Picasso and Monet had to start from somewhere too! As Bob Ross used to say: "There are no mistakes. Just happy accidents!"

[@lyndawoods1144]

Love it love it love it.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you!! 🥰🥰🥰

[@juanitalopez1529]

Love these colors!❤

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰

[@dianecourtney2724]

Was depressed but you made me have fun and I feel better 🥰✌🏼🌹

[@2lilowlsstudio]

I'm so glad!! Thank you! 🥰

[@jillkent6134]

Your stuff is a feast for the eye ❤I don’t know how you do it but these always turn out fabulous

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you so much 🥰🥰🥰

[@charlenebyington7405]

Thanks for sharing...was really liking the pink and turquoise. Great job with all the gold added on end. Iol 🌿💞🌿

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰🥰🥰

[@MemorableJ]

This was so wholesome! I saw the dinosaur too lol i also make baby versions of all the things i go larger with

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰

[@marysharp9635]

Your work is beautiful 🤩 thank you Denise, you are so encouraging…I love your intuitiveness, enabling this beginner to be more courageous and upbeat with colours and non structures, being free and to follow the movement of your arm and wrist….Nice flow , goes well with your own excitement…Many thanks for being you….❤

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you so much! 🥰🥰🥰

[@ChristianeFortin]

I just discovered your channel and truly I love it! I've been painting for more than 30 stuck into realism now and your lively personality and work are sure to bring me back to abstract art which was once my favourite (I got lost loll....) I'm presently stuck in a wheelchair after breaking my femur and hip and you truly make my days much happier. thank you so very very much . !!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Oh my goodness!! Hope you are healing fast and will be back up and around in no time! So glad you are enjoying my channel. Thank you!! 🥰

[@ChristianeFortin]

@@2lilowlsstudio 🫶❤️

[@ckuni1]

My kudos to you! I am still a beginner and not sure what I wanna do but your enthusiasm just makes my day! Please continue to spread your happiness for your art and hopefully I can be there too!!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰🥰🥰

[@Rachaelfrancesart]

This is the first time I’ve seen your channel and I already love you like you just are a sweet spirit I can tell

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰

[@mariemargueritebrickner7631]

Love your videos so much that I created my own saved video playlist from your channel. You brighten my days! And yes God bless you!!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

That really makes my day!! Thank you!! 🥰🥰🥰

[@ArtyAntics]

Excuse me, I have to say this. You are a real painter. From both a technical and personal authenticity perspective.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

I know! Sorry! I meant she paints subjects that look like what they are… like a toaster that looks like a toaster… when I’m filming and talking… my thoughts don’t always come out like I was thinking! 🤪🤪🤪. Thank you! 🥰

[@ArtyAntics]

@@2lilowlsstudio I do both, but I get the most joy out of abstract. Your work is beautiful, as is the joy you share with us whilst you make it. I wasn’t calling you out, I just wanted to affirm you. I respect your art a lot 😊💜

[@2lilowlsstudio]

@@ArtyAntics 🥰

[@allmymagicalthings9118]

I love your energy Denise! And your work is wonderful!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you!! 🥰🥰🥰

[@CJoyArt]

Oohhhh! Look at that color! Haaaw!!! hehehehehehe. I can't watch your videos without smiling Denise. You are so much fun! I wish we could art together!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

You're the best! Thank you! 🥰🥰🥰

[@MissDeeDickson]

My dear, reuse your tape❤it goes into landfill and it never breaks down! I reuse all my tape😊your videos are awesome! So are you ❤!!!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰

[@jeannecavanaugh7789]

Yes! We saw the same thing tyrannosaurus rex!!!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Haha! 😆

[@E4Alabbasy]

I absolutely needed your postivie vibe today 💖💖💖

[@2lilowlsstudio]

I'm so glad! 🥰🥰🥰

[@chanalowenthal3897]

Thanks. Inspiring. I really have to let go and experiment and seeing this makes me realize it!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

You can do it! Thank you! 🥰

[@GekkeSiamees]

I found your vids just a week ago.. So happy to hear you are on skillshare.. so I’m following you over there too!.. Love your bubbly talks and laughing.. so nice to hear some one so happy about her art!! ❤❤❤

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you!! 🥰🥰🥰

[@TeresaCashArt]

LOVE your enthusiasm!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰

[@wendykidd]

You are definitely an artist. I love your work; it inspires me and makes me happy.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you so much 🥰

[@jessicaosfamily]

YOU ARE A REAL PAINTER!! You have fun and go with it. And you teach me to play, thank GOD! Can you imagine if we took ourselves too seriously all the time and only painted when we were not feeling joy?

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you!! 🥰

[@marybethsinn6792]

Love your work and color choices!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you!! 🥰

[@debbienoblesknowles]

You feel good painting with us, but we really feel good watching you, and yes, it's extremely great therapy for anyone...I absolutely LOVE mixed media art, I'm not very good, but how I love it...I love how to take just about anything I have and using it, using paints, and old jewelry, thread, bottle caps, eggshells and well just about anything, it literally take on a life of itself...thank you Denise for inspiring all of us❣️🤗

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you!! 🥰🥰🥰

[@franlynch9428]

Beautiful, so much fun! ❤

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰

[@TammieWardArt]

Well i broke down and joined Skillshare to really watch your projects there. Oh my, i just started the black watercolor metalic class and can not wait to start working along with you. Love your ❤️

[@2lilowlsstudio]

So glad to have you in class! I can't wait to see what you are creating. I'm obsessed with the metallics after making that class. I just got a few new colors this week of those. fun stuff!! 🥰🎨🎉

[@suemsearch]

Love your favourite one. Not so keen on the pastels but a great tutorial❤❤❤

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@ChantelleArts]

I should really try inks, they always seem so vibrant 😍

[@franlynch9428]

Me too! I’m a little afraid of them lol

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Inks are super fun. I love watching them glow and move around 😍

[@kellylaher7512]

I need to swatch my inks now!❤😊

[@2lilowlsstudio]

It is super helpful!! 😊

[@victoriawildingcreates]

So glad I found your channel 🥰 love your playful style ❤

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you so much 🤗

[@MotivationalMinute2024]

Skill share I didn’t know you were on there! I’m on it! Can’t wait to take one of your courses!!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Yes!!! Definitely check out my page. Lots and lots of good stuff there 😊

[@dianahunter3555]

Yes,yes,yes . . . take the inspiration. Just be inspiration.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰

[@dreamwoodsbutterfly]

Thanks for more great inspiration and art joy! I love the color palette!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

You are so welcome! 🥰🥰🥰

[@anniefaint6373]

Lovely artwork,,,,xxxxx

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! ☺️

[@sheilaschmid7768]

Oh my gosh, I can’t wait to try this tutorial-those colors 🩷!!! When I saw you had a new KZbin up this morning I was trying to watch it while doing my hair and getting ready to meet friends for lunch….that’s how obsessed I am with watching you create masterpieces🥰!!! Oh, and I did immediately see that dinosaur 🦖🤣. I loved all of your pieces - so excited for my Saturday morning now…we’ll see if I can get a 🦖😊.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Have fun painting!! Thank you! 🥰🥰🥰

[@janleitch]

We all have fun watching you experiment.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰

[@haleyc99]

I'm a fan of your exuberance and playfulness as you make art -- SO inspiring to me!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰🥰🥰

[@Cyrilmc222004]

Thank you so much Denise, I really really enjoyed watching you create those four pieces. Super fun, and also super amazing and beautiful too. I really really love ❤️ them all. Each one has its own merit’s. Please stay safe and well too xxx Mags ❤❤❤

[@2lilowlsstudio]

So glad you liked them!! Thank you!! 🥰🥰🥰

[@colleensmith2038]

Denise, your work is just so inspiring. I love that you create something so beautiful from nothing, and just seeing what will happen. As a beginner, I don't have a lot of supplies, so I'd appreciate your advice on whether I should purchase acrylic, alcohol or watercolour ink as my next spoil!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

So glad you are enjoying my channel!! I personally prefer the acrylic inks over the alcohol and watercolor inks. The alcohol require alcohol to clean up and put out alcohol fumes that bother me... the watercolor inks still reactivate when dry - so you can change them up when you apply stuff on top. The acrylic inks are permanent when dry. I like them best. 😊

[@colleensmith2038]

@@2lilowlsstudio Thank you for replying. Have you used Derwent Inktense and what's your opinion of them Denise?

[@2lilowlsstudio]

@@colleensmith2038 yes. Inktense are great. Very vivid.

[@mistika72]

love it!!!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰

[@RinN3-.]

Your exuberance and laughter makes me happy 😃 and your freedom to express yourself creatively is inspiring lovely 🙌👏💓

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰

[@WilmaVoermans]

I love your positive videos. What I miss at your work is a little black or a focal point. But.......its your piece and if you like it its ok. This way they give a great background.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Great tip! Thanks 😊

[@valentinalaforge7694]

Watching your video while working. 😁 That's the beauty of working from home. Love the colors you used on that project. On my break, I'll do a small painting. 😁 Thanks for sharing your ideas, tips, and tricks. They are very helpful for a beginner like me.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

So glad you loved it! Thank you!! 🥰

[@danielleb.7055]

Everyone of your videos make me so happy. Thank you!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

You are so kind Thank you! 🥰

[@maestra730]

I love what you do! thanks for the inspiration! I am an intuitive painter!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

You are so welcome! 🥰🥰🥰

[@suellenterry6618]

The ‘good one of the day’ Is gorgeous totally love the palette, it reminds me of a postcard. Love them all though.🥰

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! ☺️

[@janinafisher101]

I thought they were all quite lovely! Art is definitely subjective!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you!! 🥰

[@yvonnecurtis8080]

Denise, you are a real painter....abstracts are hard, all representational artist will agree with that. i am very representational and you have helped me to loosen up and be brave and have fun like no one else...EVER. you are a real painter, you are creative, imaginative and funny. what did Einstein say....we love you

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰🤗😘

[@Barbarachocolate1956]

YOU are incredibly gifted and talented. I love your work. I love “yummy circles” too! I’m not a gold person, but you’ve inspired me to add gold to my work. Thanks for being you!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Wonderful! Thank you! 🥰

[@corinneyates7922]

Denise, I’ve tried your methods and the processes. Started with random marks with my water soluble pencils, used my stencils and stamped and drew shapes and was so pleased with my four creations. I used orange red and yellow and black inks and finished off with a bit of gold flake . I’ve done another 4 in blue yellow and green inks. It’s so much fun. I’ve drawn flowers in a vase over some and made some cards. Thanks for your super demos.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Fantastic! So glad you are enjoying these! Thank you! 🥰

[@chrisruss9861]

Keeping work spontaneous, fresh but not muddy is the key. I like the potential for lots of small intuitive items for stand alone or altered pages in an artist's book. Perhaps artists who do more formal work should have play days to liven up their minds. Thanks for the chat and nice ideas.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

I think play days are great for loosening up and learning new things! 🎨🎨🎨 Thank you! 🥰

[@dianad6314]

Thank you Denise for mentioning the fixatives.✌️❤️

[@2lilowlsstudio]

You are so welcome! 😊

[@ldolan1802]

Love this! I agree with Andi Q…you are an artist! Not many people call pull off an awesome abstract like you can. I’ve been painting for 50+ years and can’t paint an abstract to save my life! Lol! But I’m having fun trying…your a great inspiration…just take everything out and just play! 😊

[@2lilowlsstudio]

I know! Sorry! I meant she paints subjects that look like what they are… like a toaster that looks like a toaster… when I’m filming and talking… my thoughts don’t always come out like I was thinking! 🤪🤪🤪

[@terenasimons5247]

Hahha just found your channel and I love these awesome example videos, and I love your joy and enthusiasm, you make it fun!!!! I'm still beginner but these are very helpful!!!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you so much!! 🥰

[@laurienye7514]

That was wonderful, and I had the best time. I loved it.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰

[@donnaallgaier-lamberti3933]

My favorite mediums of all are acrylic inks. I use them in so many ways; I collage in spiral bound notebooks and typically I "paint" the page background first to get going. I LOVE the deep saturation colors of the inks and how they cover the watercolor papers. Of late, I have been coloring my sheets of watercolors pages from a packet of individual torn sheets sometimes with inks and sometimes acrylic paints. I love to use the inks to make my marks as well. These ink colors are these pure, jewel tones...so deeply beautiful. I've also been experimenting with inks over acrylic or acrylic over inks. The ink dries shiny and acrylic paints dries more flat with a contrast that I find interesting. Today I learned to use the dropper to make loopy circles. THANK YOU for this technique. I am STILL curious how you end up using your small teaching pieces.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

I love the inks too! I keep most of the things I paint since I make videos and classes… I store them in plastic art sleeves. Sometimes I need them to photograph and I use them as samples. Some I have framed in my house. I have given a few as gifts. My goal isn't to sell art - so I have not put them up for sale since I might need them again for something. Thank you! 🥰

[@NellieandRuthDesigns]

All fun, flirty and wonderful. TFS 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉 such pretty colors. xo

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thanks so much! 🥰

[@sharonling-LetsArtToday]

Thanks for another great video! My favourite was absolutely the one you liked too. It’s just so delicate looking and I love the colours 💕💕💕

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰🥰🥰

[@machelleshappyhobbies4977]

Absolutely gorgeous.😊

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 😊

[@L0U1SE]

Nice work!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 😊

[@lyndawoods1144]

I have done this twice first one with watercolour nearly worked the next time I used acrylics disaster!, The colours I used were not what I liked and it didn’t work at all. However, I won’t give up look out inks. I am a printmaker really who is trying to paint. Thanks keep going love to watch and listen to you.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

It gets easier! Don’t give up. Thank you! 🥰🥰🥰

[@melindastclair]

Just discovered you, but it was this moment that made me subscribe 16:21 😃

[@2lilowlsstudio]

So glad you loved this one and my craziness 😁 Thank you! 🥰

[@bonnerdebbie]

Thanks for the awesome inspiration!!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

You are so welcome! 😊

[@Christine__D]

I feel called out about "don't be that person who waits til the last minute" 😂 #ADHD

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Haha!! Too funny 😆

[@kathyroberts9703]

Love it! BTW Diane Antone gave you a shout out on her video this week (painting without a plan). Keep sharing…your fan base is growing by leaps and bounds!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Oh cool! Thank you for letting me know! 🥰🥰🥰

[@sharonparks8144]

Love your art - you are an amazing artist ❤️

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰

[@MsMoniqueWilson]

Your favourite is mine as well. And these are my colours for sure!! So much fun!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

These were fun. So glad you enjoyed this one!! 🥰

[@MsMoniqueWilson]

@@2lilowlsstudio I just found your channel. You have really inspired and empowered me. Got a gift certificate for my birthday and I'm going to buy some inks to go with my watercolours and give myself permission to play at least once a week. I also got the colour cubes because they are beautiful and I know they will be so helpful.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

@@MsMoniqueWilson Happy Birthday! 🧁 So glad you are going to make sure you get some paint time every week! Time well spent! 😊

[@MsMoniqueWilson]

@@2lilowlsstudio thanks. Though at my age I don’t count them any more 🤣🤣🤣

[@peace-n-luv9877]

Your art videos are inspirational and educational . . . thank you! I'm learning something new everyday. In this video (Intuitive Painting with Acrylic Inks) you showed your personal color swatch pages. Great idea and probably a time-consuming effort. I'm sure many of us have those specific and well-known art-seller colors in our 'stash' boxes. With that said, would you consider posting your color swatch pages on your site so followers can download/print them for reference without having to duplicate your effort. That would be so generous and appreciated. Looking forward to many more art sessions with you.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

So glad you are enjoying the videos! The swatch pages work best if you swatch out your actual colors on the paper you plan to use. Me photographing them just isn't going to be a very good gauge for how they are going to work out for you. Swatching only takes a few minutes. Worth the effort. 😊

[@peace-n-luv9877]

Good point. I'll definitely be making the color swatch pages. Thanks again!

[@lavendergrace8143]

Nice play

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you!! 😊

[@amandamarais8960]

Thank you Denise. I love your videos - so freeing to listen to your encouragement to experiment with no judgement. I would like to try to tape down pieces of paper as you do. May I ask a silly question? - what do you have underneath as a board? Just thick plastic? Thanks

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰🥰🥰 Hardboard art panels - you see me tape things down to these and they come in several different sizes: amzn.to/3C8EK3z

[@donnaherring2355]

Have you thought about doing a video using your collage pieces?

[@2lilowlsstudio]

I have several skillshare classes doing collage! 😊

[@user-er2hw1ql2l]

Happy New Year Denise....Still loving your work. You commented in a video a while back you keep all of your pieces of art and keep them in plastic sleeves, but have you ever given your viewers a look at your studio and where do you keep all of these pieces of art (in a box?) do you label them somehow. I paint on fabric and have been inspired your mark making onto my fabric pieces.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

I did a studio tour not long ago. Here is that video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqKWqmanltegrJIsi=IRiQFxhGmKz5-ryy. I keep the art in clear Rubbermaid bins under the photography table right now. I film a video, photograph the art, put the art in a sleeve, put it in the bin til I need them again. So far that works great for my workflow. 😊

[@laurawaldie456]

I agree with others. You are an artist, Denise. And a darn fine one at that!! Your favourite piece was mine as well. I kinda like all the white negative space. To me the colours seem brighter against white space and it helps to draw my eye deeper into the piece. Do you have dedicated brushes for your acrylic ink work? I was wondering if I could use my watercolour mop and quill brushes or if the ink will damage them over time. Thank-you for your video, Denise! ❤

[@2lilowlsstudio]

So glad you enjoyed the video! I do mix my brushes.. Some people keep them separate. My brushes are synthetic I believe and I did find this info: If your watercolor brush is made from synthetic hairs, then you can use them with acrylics - but if your watercolor brush is made from natural hairs, then you shouldn't use them with acrylics. Here's why: Acrylic paint is harsher on a paintbrush than watercolors, so they shouldn't be used on natural hair paint brushes.

[@laurawaldie456]

@@2lilowlsstudio Thank you, that makes total sense. I do have some natural hair mops and quills, but I have moved away from them and mostly use synthetic squirrel brushes now. Thank you so much for your reply and the information. I hope you have an awesome rest of your weekend!

[@designsdoovers]

Love your excitement and enthusiasm. I bought my first posca set because of you, lol. Now I’m buy pastel fixatives. I was wondering if you do larger pieces? Also can you do a demonstration using your “leftovers” as collage fodder?- Kristin

[@2lilowlsstudio]

So glad you are enjoying the videos! Thank you! Sometimes I do larger pieces. For the collage - I have a few collage classes on skillshare. This channel is new - so I have tons of ideas! 🥰

[@sharonaveritt4016]

Could you at some point address the difference between creating with acrylic inks and watercolors? I'm loving the intuitive painting process with watercolors and wondering whether I'm missing out on the excitement of using inks!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

They are different mediums that use different binders. Acrylic ink is thinned down acrylic paint. Once dry you cannot re-wet it. It is permanent. Usually solid opaque color. Watercolor is made with gum Arabic and honey, is transparent, can be re-wet. Usually transparent. I like to mix them because I like the opacity and vibrancy differences. I love watching ink run in water. 😊

[@Tammyhamrickgoff]

Can you use stamp pad inks that you refill your stamp pads with instead of the acrylic inks? I have a bag of these inks and no longer have the ink pads and would like to use them up. I am so glad I found you on here!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Definitely worth trying!! 🎨🎨🎨 Thank you! 🥰

[@MemorableJ]

Awe wow you’re so cute

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you! 🥰

[@ansjehartenhof8327]

Hi Denise I love your videos. What size do you use when you split it in 4. Thanks very much for your lovely work❤️

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Thank you!! 🥰 I’m usually using 9”x12” paper when I split it into 4. Nice size for minis.

[@scrapstobeautybyzandra]

I just started following you and love your energy and inspiration. I just ought the Kakimori nib you suggested. Is there a trick to it, does it need to be cleaned first? I;m just getting a big blob and the ink doesn't hold long?

[@2lilowlsstudio]

I was just dipping and going. You could wash with soap and it won't hurt it. I don't have any special tips really. I usually try it on a sample sheet of paper after I dip it to help prevent that blog on my art - because I've done that too... and the ink isn't going to last super long - it is still a dip pen with a limited amount of ink in the little groves but it does last longer than a regular dip pen and it lets me make circles which a regular dip pen doesn't do. You might experiment with different inks and just experiment in general until you get the hang of how it is going to work for you. 😊

[@2lilowlsstudio]

I found this article about prepping new nibs that might help: thepostmansknock.com/prepare-new-calligraphy-nibs-use/

[@scrapstobeautybyzandra]

@@2lilowlsstudio Thank you so muich!

[@CreativeMsKitty]

Have you ever considered selling some of the pieces you didn't want to keep? I would have purchased the other three.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

No, I don’t sell the art. I need pieces to photograph sometimes, use for other art, examples, etc… so I keep the pieces I make in videos. 😊

[@kimbartholomew8129]

I have trouble as my mind wants to make sense of things at all times. Can't abide abstract. I am trying to though.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Abstract might not be for you, but it is fun to help you loosen up 😊

[@evenstar04]

How do you get over artists block? I have not really drawn in years because I can't get out of my head, and just accept imperfections. I miss drawing. Any suggestions?

[@2lilowlsstudio]

I switch back and forth between art and photography. I think switching things up helps me avoid burnout. 😊

[@DianeAntoneStudio]

Hi Denise, I was wondering if you have an email address where I can reach you? Thanks!

[@2lilowlsstudio]

Yes - [e-mail]

[@Christine__D]

I would love to try ink! Can i get the same effects if i mix my own ink colors or should i use it straight from the bottle? Wondering what colors to purchase to start with, mixing colors or a specific palette.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

You’d definitely have to experiment with your custom made inks. I’m sure they would make cool art too. 😊

[@IncurablyCreative]

One thing to note - don’t use your watercolour brushes with ink. Particularly if it’s fountain pen ink. It’ll ruin the brush. There’s a UK artist called Nick Stewart who creates amazing stuff with fountain pen inks and bleach. After his top tip about pen ink spoiling brushes I’ve been more disciplined about keeping brushes separated. One pot/roll for acrylics, one for mark making with absolutely anything, etc. I have cheaper brushes for mixed media and spend more on my watercolour brushes. Inks are a fascinating medium. There are so many different types, all with their own unique characteristics. I’m addicted to fountain pens 🫣 and I love drawing with them, then adding water to parts of the sketch to see what the ink does. Like Denise says, enjoy playing and experimenting without worrying about an end product. The process is what matters. It disengages the part of your brain that may be anxious about something and gives your body a rest from all those fight/flight chemicals. The brain can only focus properly on one thing at a time - so things that engage the opposite side of the brain are a real tonic. Music is great for that too, or becoming totally immersed in a book. Have fun!

[@Christine__D]

@@IncurablyCreative oh thank you so much fornthe advice, I totally would have used the same brushes for both.

[@Francikakatangi]

Did you wet completely paper with water before putting colors or not?

[@2lilowlsstudio]

No. I start with dry paper.

[@Francikakatangi]

thank you so much@@2lilowlsstudio

[@thelmakelly3628]

Denise, would you have to use the fixative if you use oil pastels?

[@2lilowlsstudio]

I use Sennelier oil pastel fixative when I use oil pastels. Otherwise they never really dry. 😊

[@thelmakelly3628]

Thank you so much! I’m new to oil pastels and appreciate your reply!!!😊

[@user-oc2mt8kf2j]

Are you ambidextrous? I see you use your left hand sometimes.

[@2lilowlsstudio]

I like using my left hand to break up being too perfect. I like how the lines look when you draw with your non dominate hand. 😊