A Documented Life - What Inspires You?

Such is the journaling prompt this week in The Documented Life Project. Do a page based on something/someone that is an inspiration. I chose the watercolor sketches of Jane LaFazio, one of my favorite artists. Check out Jane's blog here. I love Jane's style; her sketching and painting is natural and intuitive, and surprisingly easy to follow. I've had the great fortune (and pleasure) of taking classes with Jane. There were several people in one class that had never sketched or used watercolors before, and by the end of the day even they were producing wonderful pieces. If you can't get to one of Jane's classes, she also teaches online. You can even find some short tutorials that are free. Click here for one of those on YouTube.

One of my favorite things to do is sketch everyday objects. I see it as a way to document a moment in life where too many (if any) words are unnecessary.

My page, followed by some closeups.

The process:  sketch with pencil (I used 98lb. bristol paper and a plain old #2 pencil) lightly, then draw over the pencil lines with a thin permanent pen (I used a Micron, tip size 01). Erase the pencil lines, then paint. If you've never done this before and want to try, do watch Jane's video. I have a travel sized Sakura watercolor kit, but you can use any brand you have. According to Jane, even a child's set will work just fine.

This is where I have found my inspiration today. What is inspiring you right now?