Art Techniques, Artist Gems, Thank You

Artist Gems for July 22

About Art of Others

I’ve been searching for other artist bloggers as a way to expand my thinking.

I write about these artists I’ve discovered in my blogging and artistic journey: Artist Gems. Take a look to view and enjoy their work.

Perhaps you’ll find a new style, a little technique, an inspiration through the ripple effect when we appreciate and observe others at their best and as they share while they develop their work. When artists create, their work influences others: the work stirs the emotions, reflects the community and events of the day, and inspires a response, perhaps even in the viewers’ own art.

Every other week I’m pleasantly surprised by what I find– I hope your enjoy these picks.

I started out this week looking for more watercolor artists, digital or otherwise and discovered Rachel Dyck. But then I could not help but notice new work by one of my favorite teachers, Tracey Capone– and, of course, Kids Month with Lisa Bardot. So it’s an eclectic group of very talented artists for you to visit.

Artist Gems for July 22, 2021

Rachel Dyck

The Critter Co

Delightful “Peter Rabbit” style watercolors enchant us and make us smile. These lovely critters and florals tickle our imaginations and inspire visions of fantasy story time. Rachel’s work creates a sense of calm and a desire to take a walk in the woods to refresh one’s soul. They are simply beautiful.

Take a look at these lovely and unique critters in a 3D effect or how about some stickers just to bring you back to your childhood? And, yes, do watch watercolor techniques from her YouTube channel.

If you love nature watercolor in soft, story-book style, Rachel’s work will inspire you. Make a visit to her site to discover something of interest for the special little one in your life.

Rachel Dyck as

Tracey Capone

Website/Blog: Tracey Capone

Truly my favorite art app is Affinity Designer— I’m still learning. And Tracey Capone, whose textured masterpieces of nature’s gifts, through subtle whimsy and organic flow, is the inspiration for getting started. I’m amazed at how she uses brushes and textures to create the effect of the look of wood and petals and wings and and sky, etc. Just look at this tufted flycatcher and you’ll fall in love with her delightful whimsical and organically, etched style. And read her article in Serif’s Affinity Spotlight about her process and love of her work: Behind the Scenes.

Her Skillshare class, “Modern Folk Art Insult Illustrations,” resulted in work that my family and friends truly appreciated– I can’t believe I created this bumble bee, and Tracey’s easy to follow course is what made it happen.

Tracey carefully walks you through all the steps of setting up the canvas for symmetry and symbols so everything works together.

The first class I took was “Textured Floral Illustrations” followed by “Symmetrical Floral Illustrations with Symbols” which, together, provides excellent instruction for beginners in Affinity Designer. It’s so delightful to find success in the complex world of vector illustration— made easy through Tracey’s clear and detailed lessons. 

Check out all her Affinity Designer Skillshare classes so you can build your asset library for the many projects you’ll imagine after taking her courses.

Her YouTube channel provides excellent lessons for Procreate, Affinity Designer, and more. I also love reading her blog to know what next steps to take and what projects she’s currently teaching. If you’re hesitant about learning Affinity Designer, take a look at this from a student— she learned to create this— and the lovely bird in Tracey’s class. Take a look, and you will love what you create.

Tracey Capone as

Lisa Bardot

Website – Bardot Brush

Lisa Bardot brings whimsy and passion into everything she does, including inspiring us to MAE: “making art everyday.” This month she’s sponsoring Kids Month— She and her son, Bear, include lessons and ideas in Procreate that will introduce you to the app and inspire you to try it out.

Besides prompts for daily drawing, she provides tutorials to help you get started— with some free brushes to make that start easier.  I loved the tutorial on creating coloring pages, and, if you want to make your own pages for your family and friends, this gets you started. It’s how I got started making them for weekend shares [Elephant].

Lisa provides free color palettes, which really helps beginners— and a list of recommendations from her followers for Skillshare classes. Like I said, she has passion for herself, her sons, and you!  Check out and subscribe to her sites and you will find support and resources for inspiration, including tons of tutorials.

Lisa Bardot as

So Take a look!


Again I’ve found those who create art with heart– artists who share their style with visuals of their beautiful work, including excellent tutorials and classes and plenty of freebies that will inspire you. I love trying out the free palettes and brushes before I purchase, and they show the possibilities for making your own. We learn from each other, and these three artists share so well as artists who care to share so that we all will enjoy and can make art.

I hope you enjoy their work and learn a bit more from them, as I have. I appreciate and thank them for sharing their journey– a little ripple effect that improves the world, which is something that is much needed in these times today.

Take a look– I’m sure you’ll agree, each of these artists create with the heart first! Stop by their websites and thank them!

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