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Splotch Monster Island

Splotch Monster Island

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What happens when a Splotch Monster sings to a little brown bat? Continuing with the NOVA native species series, I decided to choose a mammal I had a couple of encounters with while living in both Virginia and Pennsylvania, both ending with me eventually catching and releasing them back into the wild. They’re both cute and creepy, and a vital part of the ecosystem. In this post I included the presketch I made at the makerspace, as well as the paint splotch before it got drawn on. #makerspace #brambletonlibrary #loudouncountypubliclibrary #brambletonva #littlebrownbat #nativespecies #northernvirginiawildlife #artistresidency #artistinresidence #drawing #watercolor #moleskine #moleskinesketchbook #loudounarts #loudounartscouncil #loudounart #art #artwork #artonpaper #virginiaartist #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #collabresidency

What happens when a Splotch Monster sings to a little brown bat? Continuing with the NOVA native species series, I decided to choose a mammal I had a couple of encounters with while living in both Virginia and Pennsylvania, both ending with me eventually catching and releasing them back into the wild. They’re both cute and creepy, and a vital part of the ecosystem. In this post I included the presketch I made at the makerspace, as well as the paint splotch before it got drawn on. #makerspace #brambletonlibrary #loudouncountypubliclibrary #brambletonva #littlebrownbat #nativespecies #northernvirginiawildlife #artistresidency #artistinresidence #drawing #watercolor #moleskine #moleskinesketchbook #loudounarts #loudounartscouncil #loudounart #art #artwork #artonpaper #virginiaartist #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #collabresidency

I managed to make use of the sublimation printing facilities at the Brambleton Library makerspace today, and got a set of five different Splotch Monster mugs made as well as a couple of T-shirts. I’m also in the early stages of getting pins made, but have a little ways to go. A big shoutout goes to Eric and Luke at the space, for their kind help and knowledgeable expertise in this kind of thing - I really like how they turned out! #artistresidency #brambletonlibrary #loudouncountypubliclibrary #brambletonva #loudouncountyva #makerspace #sublimationprinting #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #artist #artistinresidence #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #loudouncountyartist #loudounarts #loudounartscouncil #collabresidency #dmvartist #virginiaartist #dmvartist

I managed to make use of the sublimation printing facilities at the Brambleton Library makerspace today, and got a set of five different Splotch Monster mugs made as well as a couple of T-shirts. I’m also in the early stages of getting pins made, but have a little ways to go. A big shoutout goes to Eric and Luke at the space, for their kind help and knowledgeable expertise in this kind of thing - I really like how they turned out! #artistresidency #brambletonlibrary #loudouncountypubliclibrary #brambletonva #loudouncountyva #makerspace #sublimationprinting #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #artist #artistinresidence #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #loudouncountyartist #loudounarts #loudounartscouncil #collabresidency #dmvartist #virginiaartist #dmvartist

To make up for time lost Sunday, I put in four hours at the Brambleton Library makerspace on Monday, and managed to get a whole lot done. The first hour was spent getting a handful of paint splotches painted while talking a bit with some of the incredibly knowledgeable and creative folks who work at the space. A few Splotch Monsters were drawn on as well, including a couple of ones in India Ink, and one for the native species book, that I’ll post when finished, another time. I was happy to add a new native pollinator in the form of Cone Flowers, to the NOVA Splotch Dragon’s head, along with an accompanying Common Eastern Bumblebee. A woman who had just moved to the area came by and said how beautiful my work is, which made my day. I let her know about the workshops scheduled throughout the summer and gave her the free print I didn’t get around to dropping off yet, and she was so appreciative. It also happened to be her first visit to the library! Hopefully it was a good visit. Wanting to start using some of the space’s available technology, I recently ordered some special white t-shirts and coffee mugs that’ll be getting the Splotch Monster treatment very soon, and I’ll be sure to keep folks posted on that whenever they become available. #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonster #art #artwork #watercolor #drawing #dragon #art #artwork #artistoninstagram #artistsonininstagram #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #loudounartscouncil #loudounarts #collabartistseries #artistresidency #loudouncountypubliclibrary #brambletonlibrary #virginiaartist #pollinators🐝 #pollinatorweek #pollinatorweek2025

To make up for time lost Sunday, I put in four hours at the Brambleton Library makerspace on Monday, and managed to get a whole lot done. The first hour was spent getting a handful of paint splotches painted while talking a bit with some of the incredibly knowledgeable and creative folks who work at the space. A few Splotch Monsters were drawn on as well, including a couple of ones in India Ink, and one for the native species book, that I’ll post when finished, another time. I was happy to add a new native pollinator in the form of Cone Flowers, to the NOVA Splotch Dragon’s head, along with an accompanying Common Eastern Bumblebee. A woman who had just moved to the area came by and said how beautiful my work is, which made my day. I let her know about the workshops scheduled throughout the summer and gave her the free print I didn’t get around to dropping off yet, and she was so appreciative. It also happened to be her first visit to the library! Hopefully it was a good visit. Wanting to start using some of the space’s available technology, I recently ordered some special white t-shirts and coffee mugs that’ll be getting the Splotch Monster treatment very soon, and I’ll be sure to keep folks posted on that whenever they become available. #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonster #art #artwork #watercolor #drawing #dragon #art #artwork #artistoninstagram #artistsonininstagram #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #loudounartscouncil #loudounarts #collabartistseries #artistresidency #loudouncountypubliclibrary #brambletonlibrary #virginiaartist #pollinators🐝 #pollinatorweek #pollinatorweek2025

“Don’t wait for inspiration. Learn to cultivate it.” -Nick Petrie
#splotchmonster #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsterisland #art #artwork #artonpaper #indiaink #drawing #pigmamicron #sakurajellyrollwhite #repurposedart #trees #dragon #creatures #creativity #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart #virginiaartist

“Don’t wait for inspiration. Learn to cultivate it.” -Nick Petrie
#splotchmonster #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsterisland #art #artwork #artonpaper #indiaink #drawing #pigmamicron #sakurajellyrollwhite #repurposedart #trees #dragon #creatures #creativity #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart #virginiaartist

Made for an upcoming zine a friend is putting together, this is just your friendly reminder that fascism has NO place in America. #nokings #nofascism #democracy #freedom #humanrights #libertyandjusticeforALL #indiaink #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonster #catsofinstagram #artonpaper #drawing #artwork #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart #virginiaartist

Made for an upcoming zine a friend is putting together, this is just your friendly reminder that fascism has NO place in America. #nokings #nofascism #democracy #freedom #humanrights #libertyandjusticeforALL #indiaink #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonster #catsofinstagram #artonpaper #drawing #artwork #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart #virginiaartist

Today I went straight from work to the makerspace to get cracking on the Splotch Dragon’s legs and feet, vowing to finish them before leaving to go home. Since I came from work, there were no prints to drop off this time. I included a progress shot of the triptych, which is in its very early stages, and will eventually have a garden of native northern Virginia plants growing primarily from the beast’s back. I also completed another Splotch Monster encounter with a NOVA animal, this one being a rainbow trout. I’m trying to be mindful of including a variety of species, including fish is this series and subsequent book. Unfortunately I won’t be at my residency this Sunday as I’ll be going away for the weekend, but I’ll definitely make up for lost time next week! #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonster #art #artwork #artistresidency #artistinresidence #brambletonlibrary #loudouncountypubliclibrary #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #dragon #artonpaper #rainbowtrout #loudounartscouncil #collabresidency #artistoninstagram #artistsonininstagram #drawing #watercolor

Today I went straight from work to the makerspace to get cracking on the Splotch Dragon’s legs and feet, vowing to finish them before leaving to go home. Since I came from work, there were no prints to drop off this time. I included a progress shot of the triptych, which is in its very early stages, and will eventually have a garden of native northern Virginia plants growing primarily from the beast’s back. I also completed another Splotch Monster encounter with a NOVA animal, this one being a rainbow trout. I’m trying to be mindful of including a variety of species, including fish is this series and subsequent book. Unfortunately I won’t be at my residency this Sunday as I’ll be going away for the weekend, but I’ll definitely make up for lost time next week! #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonster #art #artwork #artistresidency #artistinresidence #brambletonlibrary #loudouncountypubliclibrary #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #dragon #artonpaper #rainbowtrout #loudounartscouncil #collabresidency #artistoninstagram #artistsonininstagram #drawing #watercolor

Last night, more progress was made on the NOVA Flora Splotch Dragon, at the Brambleton Library makerspace. I so badly wanted to include a hawkmoth in the work, so I found and sketched from some images of my favorite kind - the white-lined sphinx moth. I remember first seeing one hovering around in a garden out this way, shortly after moving to Virginia from Pittsburgh, and it completely messed with my mind in the best possible way. What was that strange mutant hummingbird, I thought, only to learn it was an insect. I also managed to get most of the first leg done, complete with Northern Sea Oats grass growing out from the limb. A good handful of folks came through and hung out a while, and I even gave one sweet family a little hint as to where I dropped my free print off, this time. Hopefully they were able to find it! #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonster #dragon #watercolor #drawing #artonpaper #loudounartist #loudounart #art #artwork #loudounartscouncil #loudouncountypubliclibrary #brambletonlibrary #dmvartist #artistoninstagram #artistsonininstagram #moleskine #northernseaoats #workinprogress

Last night, more progress was made on the NOVA Flora Splotch Dragon, at the Brambleton Library makerspace. I so badly wanted to include a hawkmoth in the work, so I found and sketched from some images of my favorite kind - the white-lined sphinx moth. I remember first seeing one hovering around in a garden out this way, shortly after moving to Virginia from Pittsburgh, and it completely messed with my mind in the best possible way. What was that strange mutant hummingbird, I thought, only to learn it was an insect. I also managed to get most of the first leg done, complete with Northern Sea Oats grass growing out from the limb. A good handful of folks came through and hung out a while, and I even gave one sweet family a little hint as to where I dropped my free print off, this time. Hopefully they were able to find it! #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonster #dragon #watercolor #drawing #artonpaper #loudounartist #loudounart #art #artwork #loudounartscouncil #loudouncountypubliclibrary #brambletonlibrary #dmvartist #artistoninstagram #artistsonininstagram #moleskine #northernseaoats #workinprogress

Today was a very fun yet productive day at the Brambleton Library makerspace. I managed to start adding details to what I now call the NOVA Splotch Dragon, beginning work with the face. I also added the first native northern Virginia flower - a Cardinal Flower, as well as a native insect - the Autumn Meadowhawk Dragonfly, and worked on some preliminary sketches of both beforehand. A few more pieces went up on one of the makerspace walls, before another print drop off, with accompanying paint Splotch, on the second floor. The real highlight was getting to meet some wonderful people today, however, from the librarians, to folks who came in to have a look and say hello, and even sit down and make some art with me - these things can really brighten up an otherwise gloomy, wet Sunday afternoon. #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #autumnmeadowhawkdragonfly #moleskinesketchbook #cardinalflower #northernvirginiawildlife #brambletonlibrary #loudounartscouncil #loudounarts #art #artwork #artonpaper #artistoninstagram #residentartist #artistresidency #makerspace #wip #artistsoninstagram #drawing #watercolor #dragon #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #collabartistresidency

Today was a very fun yet productive day at the Brambleton Library makerspace. I managed to start adding details to what I now call the NOVA Splotch Dragon, beginning work with the face. I also added the first native northern Virginia flower - a Cardinal Flower, as well as a native insect - the Autumn Meadowhawk Dragonfly, and worked on some preliminary sketches of both beforehand. A few more pieces went up on one of the makerspace walls, before another print drop off, with accompanying paint Splotch, on the second floor. The real highlight was getting to meet some wonderful people today, however, from the librarians, to folks who came in to have a look and say hello, and even sit down and make some art with me - these things can really brighten up an otherwise gloomy, wet Sunday afternoon. #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #autumnmeadowhawkdragonfly #moleskinesketchbook #cardinalflower #northernvirginiawildlife #brambletonlibrary #loudounartscouncil #loudounarts #art #artwork #artonpaper #artistoninstagram #residentartist #artistresidency #makerspace #wip #artistsoninstagram #drawing #watercolor #dragon #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #collabartistresidency

What happens when a ruby-throated hummingbird meets its giant Splotch Monster cousin while migrating to northern Virginia? This one’s my latest in the tentatively titled A Splotch Monster’s Guide to Northern Virginia Wildlife book, and series. Last night, while at the Brambleton Library makerspace, I also dropped off another free print on the second floor (that has to do with bikes, hint, hint) and made lots of progress on a new Splotch Dragon triptych that will have native northern Virginia flora growing from its body. I look forward to getting back to work on it this Sunday, while at the makerspace from 12-5pm! Drop by if you’re in the area! #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #rubythroatedhummingbird #hummingbird #northernvirginiawildlife #brambletonlibrary #loudounartscouncil #loudounarts #art #artwork #artonpaper #artistoninstagram #residentartist #artistresidency #makerspace #wip #artistsoninstagram #drawing #watercolor #dragon #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #collabartistresidency

What happens when a ruby-throated hummingbird meets its giant Splotch Monster cousin while migrating to northern Virginia? This one’s my latest in the tentatively titled A Splotch Monster’s Guide to Northern Virginia Wildlife book, and series. Last night, while at the Brambleton Library makerspace, I also dropped off another free print on the second floor (that has to do with bikes, hint, hint) and made lots of progress on a new Splotch Dragon triptych that will have native northern Virginia flora growing from its body. I look forward to getting back to work on it this Sunday, while at the makerspace from 12-5pm! Drop by if you’re in the area! #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #rubythroatedhummingbird #hummingbird #northernvirginiawildlife #brambletonlibrary #loudounartscouncil #loudounarts #art #artwork #artonpaper #artistoninstagram #residentartist #artistresidency #makerspace #wip #artistsoninstagram #drawing #watercolor #dragon #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #collabartistresidency

Last night I completed work on this Splotch Monster encounter with a common snapping turtle while at my artist residency at Brambleton Library. Wanting to play but worried he might get bitten, our splotchy friend is quite curious about the shell-backed reptile slowly strolling along in front of him. Perhaps simply watching and observing and leaving the turtle alone is the way to go, this time around. I also hung a mini exhibit of prints in the maker space, and dropped off another free print (with a blank splotch and instructions) on the second floor. It was a few hours well spent, capping off a very full and eventful day. #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #art #splotchmonster #commonsnappingturtle #northernvirginiawildlife #brambletonlibrary #loudouncountypubliclibrary #collabartistredidency #loudounartscouncil #loudounarts #loudouncountyartist #residentartist #artwork #artonpaper #watercolor #drawing #animalart #turtle #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #virginiaartist

Last night I completed work on this Splotch Monster encounter with a common snapping turtle while at my artist residency at Brambleton Library. Wanting to play but worried he might get bitten, our splotchy friend is quite curious about the shell-backed reptile slowly strolling along in front of him. Perhaps simply watching and observing and leaving the turtle alone is the way to go, this time around. I also hung a mini exhibit of prints in the maker space, and dropped off another free print (with a blank splotch and instructions) on the second floor. It was a few hours well spent, capping off a very full and eventful day. #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #art #splotchmonster #commonsnappingturtle #northernvirginiawildlife #brambletonlibrary #loudouncountypubliclibrary #collabartistredidency #loudounartscouncil #loudounarts #loudouncountyartist #residentartist #artwork #artonpaper #watercolor #drawing #animalart #turtle #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #virginiaartist

“Play keeps us vital and alive. It gives us an enthusiasm for life that is irreplaceable. Without it, life just doesn’t taste good” ~ Lucia Capocchione. #splotchmonster #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsterisland #art #play #butterfly #dragon #indiaink #drawing #creativity #imagination #artonpaper #repurposedart #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram

“Play keeps us vital and alive. It gives us an enthusiasm for life that is irreplaceable. Without it, life just doesn’t taste good” ~ Lucia Capocchione. #splotchmonster #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsterisland #art #play #butterfly #dragon #indiaink #drawing #creativity #imagination #artonpaper #repurposedart #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram

A new Splotch Monster from a new series, and my first day at the Brambleton Library as part of the COLLAB artist residency. This Splotch Monster is having an encounter with an eastern American toad, and will eventually be compiled into a book about Splotch Monsters AND northern Virginia wildlife, which will be donated to the library upon completion. In the meantime, with each visit, I’ll be giving away a free Splotch Monster print and blank paint splotch for folks to collaborate on, and keep for themselves. These prints can be found on the second floor of the Brambleton library, and with each drop off, I’ll also post a hint as to where it can be found. I’ll be here at the maker space today until 5pm, so if you’re in the area, feel free to drop in and make some art! #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsterisland #loudouncountypubliclibrary #brambletonlibrary #easternamericantoad #toad #wildlifeart #artistresidency #collabartistresidency #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstgram #watercolor #drawing #dmvartist #loudounart #loudounartscouncil #loudounarts #artonpaper

A new Splotch Monster from a new series, and my first day at the Brambleton Library as part of the COLLAB artist residency. This Splotch Monster is having an encounter with an eastern American toad, and will eventually be compiled into a book about Splotch Monsters AND northern Virginia wildlife, which will be donated to the library upon completion. In the meantime, with each visit, I’ll be giving away a free Splotch Monster print and blank paint splotch for folks to collaborate on, and keep for themselves. These prints can be found on the second floor of the Brambleton library, and with each drop off, I’ll also post a hint as to where it can be found. I’ll be here at the maker space today until 5pm, so if you’re in the area, feel free to drop in and make some art! #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsterisland #loudouncountypubliclibrary #brambletonlibrary #easternamericantoad #toad #wildlifeart #artistresidency #collabartistresidency #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstgram #watercolor #drawing #dmvartist #loudounart #loudounartscouncil #loudounarts #artonpaper

“The foundation of all life is in the ocean” -Jean-Michel Cousteau #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #marinelife #oceanlife #nautilus #mollusk #wildlife #art #artwork #repurposedart #indiaink #drawing #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart #virginiaartist #wildlifeart #creatures #creativity #imagination

“The foundation of all life is in the ocean” -Jean-Michel Cousteau #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #marinelife #oceanlife #nautilus #mollusk #wildlife #art #artwork #repurposedart #indiaink #drawing #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart #virginiaartist #wildlifeart #creatures #creativity #imagination

“Kindness begins with the understanding that we all struggle.” – Charles Glassman #art #kindness #dragon #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #drawing #indiaink #artonpaper #artist #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #virginiaartist #repurposedart #loudounart #loudouncountyartist

“Kindness begins with the understanding that we all struggle.” – Charles Glassman #art #kindness #dragon #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #drawing #indiaink #artonpaper #artist #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #virginiaartist #repurposedart #loudounart #loudouncountyartist

“There so many reasons to fall in love with dragonflies. They have intriguing stories to tell us. They make our world a more beautiful place. And they are scrappy survivors.” -Cindy Crosby #dragon #dragonfly #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #art #splotchmonsterart #nature #artwork #artonpaper #repurposedart #indiaink #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

“There so many reasons to fall in love with dragonflies. They have intriguing stories to tell us. They make our world a more beautiful place. And they are scrappy survivors.” -Cindy Crosby #dragon #dragonfly #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #art #splotchmonsterart #nature #artwork #artonpaper #repurposedart #indiaink #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

“Let us fill our hearts with our own compassion towards ourselves and towards all living beings.” — Thich Nhat Hanh #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #indiaink #art #artwork #artonpaper #repurposedart #drawing #creature #creativity #compassion #love #artlove #fish #sealife #sakurapigmamicron #sakurajellyrollpens #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudounart #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist

“Let us fill our hearts with our own compassion towards ourselves and towards all living beings.” — Thich Nhat Hanh #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #indiaink #art #artwork #artonpaper #repurposedart #drawing #creature #creativity #compassion #love #artlove #fish #sealife #sakurapigmamicron #sakurajellyrollpens #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudounart #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist

Splotch-o-lotls DO exist! #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #axolotl #indiaink #sakurajellyrollwhite #sakurapigmamicron #repurposedart #repurposedpaper #art #artwork #drawing #imagination #creativity #creature #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #artonpaper #makeart #havefun

Splotch-o-lotls DO exist! #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #axolotl #indiaink #sakurajellyrollwhite #sakurapigmamicron #repurposedart #repurposedpaper #art #artwork #drawing #imagination #creativity #creature #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #artonpaper #makeart #havefun

Yesterday, one of my second grade students, whose name is Ethan, brought in some amazing Splotch Monsters that he made at home. It’s always so good to see my students’ parents supporting their children’s creativity beyond the art classroom, and Ethan has had a real knack for drawing and art since an early age. I love everything about these, and happily displayed them at the front of the art room to inspire Ethan’s friends and fellow classmates. Go Ethan! #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #artonpaper #watercolor #drawing #childrensart #elementaryart #kidart #artist #artistoninstagram #drawing #watercolor #imagination #creativity

Yesterday, one of my second grade students, whose name is Ethan, brought in some amazing Splotch Monsters that he made at home. It’s always so good to see my students’ parents supporting their children’s creativity beyond the art classroom, and Ethan has had a real knack for drawing and art since an early age. I love everything about these, and happily displayed them at the front of the art room to inspire Ethan’s friends and fellow classmates. Go Ethan! #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #artonpaper #watercolor #drawing #childrensart #elementaryart #kidart #artist #artistoninstagram #drawing #watercolor #imagination #creativity

Ready for the rain. #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #art #drawing #watercolor #artonpaper #umbrella #monster #monsterart #creativity #imagination #artist #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

Ready for the rain. #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #art #drawing #watercolor #artonpaper #umbrella #monster #monsterart #creativity #imagination #artist #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

Wishing a happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there! *collab with @krisloyaart #love #artlove #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsterislandxkrisloyaart #splotchmonsters #art #artwork #skateboard #flowerboquet #artonpaper #drawing #watercolor #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #creativity #imagination #artistoninstagram #artistsoninsragram #virginiaartist #mothersday

Wishing a happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there! *collab with @krisloyaart #love #artlove #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsterislandxkrisloyaart #splotchmonsters #art #artwork #skateboard #flowerboquet #artonpaper #drawing #watercolor #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #creativity #imagination #artistoninstagram #artistsoninsragram #virginiaartist #mothersday

Did an impromptu art drop-off at the new Little Free Art Gallery at Raflo Park, in Leesburg, Virginia yesterday. The “Splotchness Monster” might still be there, and ready to go to a good home if you’re in the area (and fast enough). In the meantime, don’t hesitate to meander a bit through the park, and explore the latest annual outdoor sculpture exhibit! #raflopark #littlefreeartgallery #leesburgva #leesburgvirginia #leesburg #loudouncountyva #publicart #publicsculpture #art #artwork #artonpaper #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #loudounart #freeart

Did an impromptu art drop-off at the new Little Free Art Gallery at Raflo Park, in Leesburg, Virginia yesterday. The “Splotchness Monster” might still be there, and ready to go to a good home if you’re in the area (and fast enough). In the meantime, don’t hesitate to meander a bit through the park, and explore the latest annual outdoor sculpture exhibit! #raflopark #littlefreeartgallery #leesburgva #leesburgvirginia #leesburg #loudouncountyva #publicart #publicsculpture #art #artwork #artonpaper #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #loudounart #freeart

This has been a project that has been brewing in my mind for quite some time - a Splotch Monster alphabet, and now it’s finally come to fruition. It was proposed to me by @krisloyaart years ago, and the letters were actually completed about four years ago, and then sat in a stack, untouched until now. I’ve got a few ideas with regard to what I’m going to do with them, but I’m just happy to have finally finished working on them. Looking forward to posting each one individually, soon! #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #art #artwork #artonpaper #alphabet #illustration #drawing #watercolor #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #creatures #creativity #virginiaartist #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

This has been a project that has been brewing in my mind for quite some time - a Splotch Monster alphabet, and now it’s finally come to fruition. It was proposed to me by @krisloyaart years ago, and the letters were actually completed about four years ago, and then sat in a stack, untouched until now. I’ve got a few ideas with regard to what I’m going to do with them, but I’m just happy to have finally finished working on them. Looking forward to posting each one individually, soon! #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #art #artwork #artonpaper #alphabet #illustration #drawing #watercolor #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #creatures #creativity #virginiaartist #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

This summer I’ll be posting a lot of new Splotch Monster material, as a lot of good stuff is in the works. I thought I’d go back in time and find some earlier ones from the past decade or so, with some “before and after” context. In the past, I used to scan the paint splotches before drawing on them - something I rarely do, now. I also explored a variety of approaches, until I finally settled into a style that is quite distinct and one I very much enjoy. Can’t wait to share this new work soon! #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #artwork #creativity #beforeandafter #watercolor #drawing #indiaink #artonpaper #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

This summer I’ll be posting a lot of new Splotch Monster material, as a lot of good stuff is in the works. I thought I’d go back in time and find some earlier ones from the past decade or so, with some “before and after” context. In the past, I used to scan the paint splotches before drawing on them - something I rarely do, now. I also explored a variety of approaches, until I finally settled into a style that is quite distinct and one I very much enjoy. Can’t wait to share this new work soon! #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #artwork #creativity #beforeandafter #watercolor #drawing #indiaink #artonpaper #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

You got this! #yougotthis #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #art #artwork #artonpaper #illustration #drawing #watercolor #creature #creativity #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

You got this! #yougotthis #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #art #artwork #artonpaper #illustration #drawing #watercolor #creature #creativity #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

Lots of new work in the works! Looking forward to posting each one individually, soon! #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #wip #newwork #art #artwork #watercolor #drawing #indiaink #artonpaper #creativity #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart #artisticprocess #monsterart #inspiration

Lots of new work in the works! Looking forward to posting each one individually, soon! #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #wip #newwork #art #artwork #watercolor #drawing #indiaink #artonpaper #creativity #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart #artisticprocess #monsterart #inspiration

New things are on the horizon for Splotch Monster Island this summer. Stay tuned! #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #splotchmonster #art #artwork #artistonınstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #drawing #watercolor #monsterart #artonpaper #creativity

New things are on the horizon for Splotch Monster Island this summer. Stay tuned! #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #splotchmonster #art #artwork #artistonınstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #drawing #watercolor #monsterart #artonpaper #creativity

You can run from Monday, but it’ll eventually catch up with ya. #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #artonpaper #illustration #drawing #watercolor #artistonistagram #artistsoninstagram #creativity #run #monday #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist

You can run from Monday, but it’ll eventually catch up with ya. #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #artonpaper #illustration #drawing #watercolor #artistonistagram #artistsoninstagram #creativity #run #monday #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist

Happy Easter weekend to those who celebrate! This one’s a nod to my late uncle Gene, who was a middle-school teacher but also an incredible painter of Ukrainian eggs. #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonster #easter #easteregg #easterbunny #ukrainianeggs #pysankyeggs #art #artwork #artistonınstagram #artonpaper #artistsoninstagram #drawing #watercolor

Happy Easter weekend to those who celebrate! This one’s a nod to my late uncle Gene, who was a middle-school teacher but also an incredible painter of Ukrainian eggs. #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonster #easter #easteregg #easterbunny #ukrainianeggs #pysankyeggs #art #artwork #artistonınstagram #artonpaper #artistsoninstagram #drawing #watercolor

Hooray for Friday! #splotchmonster #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #drawing #artonpaper #watercolor #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #monsterart #creativity #dmvartist #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

Hooray for Friday! #splotchmonster #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #drawing #artonpaper #watercolor #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #monsterart #creativity #dmvartist #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

Splotch Monsters for Ukraine. 🇺🇦 ❤️#splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #ukraine #supportukraine #standforukraine #freedom #democracy #art #artwork #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #drawing #watercolor #artonpaper #sunflower #dmvartist #loudounart #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #justsaynotofascism

Splotch Monsters for Ukraine. 🇺🇦 ❤️#splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #ukraine #supportukraine #standforukraine #freedom #democracy #art #artwork #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #drawing #watercolor #artonpaper #sunflower #dmvartist #loudounart #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #justsaynotofascism

I believe in you. #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #art #illustration #encouragement #hope #love #drawing #watercolor #butterfly #artonpaper #artistonınstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist

I believe in you. #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #art #illustration #encouragement #hope #love #drawing #watercolor #butterfly #artonpaper #artistonınstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist

Saw lots of great art while visiting the @carnegiemuseumofart in Pittsburgh yesterday, that I’ll be posting more about at @sloya72, soon. Do you love art as well, and if so, why? Maybe looking at art has been a source of inspiration, joy, or intrigue. Perhaps the act of making or even teaching about art has been a source of therapy or has given you or others a sense of purpose. Here at Splotch Monster Island, we love art and hope you do as well. #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #artistonınstagram #artistsoninstagram #creativity #artonpaper #illustration #drawing #watercolor #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart #virginiaartist

Saw lots of great art while visiting the @carnegiemuseumofart in Pittsburgh yesterday, that I’ll be posting more about at @sloya72, soon. Do you love art as well, and if so, why? Maybe looking at art has been a source of inspiration, joy, or intrigue. Perhaps the act of making or even teaching about art has been a source of therapy or has given you or others a sense of purpose. Here at Splotch Monster Island, we love art and hope you do as well. #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #artistonınstagram #artistsoninstagram #creativity #artonpaper #illustration #drawing #watercolor #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart #virginiaartist

Sing with me (collab with @krisloyaart)! #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsterislandxkrisloyaart #splotchmonsters #birds #springtime #stopandsmelltheflowers #sing #art #artwork #artlove #artonpaper #drawing #watercolor #dmvartist #virginiaartist #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #creativecollaboration

Sing with me (collab with @krisloyaart)! #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsterislandxkrisloyaart #splotchmonsters #birds #springtime #stopandsmelltheflowers #sing #art #artwork #artlove #artonpaper #drawing #watercolor #dmvartist #virginiaartist #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #creativecollaboration

“Just keep swimming.” -Dory #seahorse #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsterisland #art #artwork #artonpaper #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #creativity #marinelife #justkeepswimming

“Just keep swimming.” -Dory #seahorse #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsterisland #art #artwork #artonpaper #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #creativity #marinelife #justkeepswimming

“Rain is grace; rain is the sky descending to the earth. Without rain, there would be no life.”
-John Updike #rain #springtime #splotchmonster #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsterisland #art #artwork #drawing #watercolor #artonpaper #artwork #artistoninstagram #artistsonininstagram #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #dmvartist

“Rain is grace; rain is the sky descending to the earth. Without rain, there would be no life.”
-John Updike #rain #springtime #splotchmonster #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsterisland #art #artwork #drawing #watercolor #artonpaper #artwork #artistoninstagram #artistsonininstagram #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #virginiaartist #dmvartist

“The best thing one can do when it’s raining is to let it rain.”
-Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
#rain #springtime #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #splotchmonster #art #artwork #watercolor #drawing #artonpaper #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist

“The best thing one can do when it’s raining is to let it rain.”
-Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
#rain #springtime #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #splotchmonster #art #artwork #watercolor #drawing #artonpaper #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist

A flower for a song. #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #birds #flowers #watercolor #drawing #artonpaper #creativity #artistonınstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

A flower for a song. #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #birds #flowers #watercolor #drawing #artonpaper #creativity #artistonınstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #virginiaartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

Keep on keepin’ on! #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterislandxkrisloyaart #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #krisloyaart #bike #bicycle #flowers #watercolor #art #artonpaper #springtime #artwork #artistonistagram #artistsoninstagram #creativecollaboration #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist

Keep on keepin’ on! #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterislandxkrisloyaart #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #krisloyaart #bike #bicycle #flowers #watercolor #art #artonpaper #springtime #artwork #artistonistagram #artistsoninstagram #creativecollaboration #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist

New adventures are right around the corner. 🐌 #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonster #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #artonpaper #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #snail #snailpower #newadventures #blossoms #springtime #drawing #watercolor #creatures #creativity #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist

New adventures are right around the corner. 🐌 #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonster #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #artonpaper #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #snail #snailpower #newadventures #blossoms #springtime #drawing #watercolor #creatures #creativity #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist

One of my all time favorite Splotch Monsters was a collaboration with @krisloyaart, made as part of the Stop and Smell the Flowers series during the pandemic, called Kai Joo. If I could keep just one, it would be this one, because in many ways, it embodied who Kris was - someone who loved and appreciated the everyday things, always finding the extraordinary in the ordinary. I love how she so delicately rendered the cherry blossoms on Kai Joo, making watercolor look deceptively simple. The three butterflies that I drew, used her favorite colors - a motif I continue to use sometimes with newer Splotch Monsters (see previous post). Though it’s been over three years, I think of Kris every day, especially now, in the springtime. With great difficulty, I’ve been able to move forward, though I refuse to say “move on”, as it seems dismissive of a person’s presence in one’s life. I’ve learned to love again and live again, and learned you can continue to love someone even if they can no longer be with you anymore. I was recently discussing the topic of loss with a good friend who has led a very storied life - the kind of friend you can easily talk about anything with and feel comfortable because they’ve been there and they understand. We talked about how loss becomes more common the longer we’re alive on this planet, and how, in addition to losing someone you love whose life was taken by an all-too-common and horrific disease, you can lose those you love who are still living as well - to drug addiction, mental illness, and even cult-like religious and political affiliations. How you face that loss and attempt to make peace with it makes all the difference in the world, however, as it can either make or completely break you. Lately, I’ve been exploring The School of Life series on YouTube, and while the artist in me enjoys the animation, the wisdom gleaned from these short videos is invaluable and highly recommended, especially during those times when things don’t seem to make much sense anymore. #art #loss #krisloyaart #splotchmonsterisland #artistsoninstagram #wisdom #knowledgeispower #watercolor #drawing #artistoninstagram #theschooloflife #stopandsmelltheflowers #love

One of my all time favorite Splotch Monsters was a collaboration with @krisloyaart, made as part of the Stop and Smell the Flowers series during the pandemic, called Kai Joo. If I could keep just one, it would be this one, because in many ways, it embodied who Kris was - someone who loved and appreciated the everyday things, always finding the extraordinary in the ordinary. I love how she so delicately rendered the cherry blossoms on Kai Joo, making watercolor look deceptively simple. The three butterflies that I drew, used her favorite colors - a motif I continue to use sometimes with newer Splotch Monsters (see previous post). Though it’s been over three years, I think of Kris every day, especially now, in the springtime. With great difficulty, I’ve been able to move forward, though I refuse to say “move on”, as it seems dismissive of a person’s presence in one’s life. I’ve learned to love again and live again, and learned you can continue to love someone even if they can no longer be with you anymore. I was recently discussing the topic of loss with a good friend who has led a very storied life - the kind of friend you can easily talk about anything with and feel comfortable because they’ve been there and they understand. We talked about how loss becomes more common the longer we’re alive on this planet, and how, in addition to losing someone you love whose life was taken by an all-too-common and horrific disease, you can lose those you love who are still living as well - to drug addiction, mental illness, and even cult-like religious and political affiliations. How you face that loss and attempt to make peace with it makes all the difference in the world, however, as it can either make or completely break you. Lately, I’ve been exploring The School of Life series on YouTube, and while the artist in me enjoys the animation, the wisdom gleaned from these short videos is invaluable and highly recommended, especially during those times when things don’t seem to make much sense anymore. #art #loss #krisloyaart #splotchmonsterisland #artistsoninstagram #wisdom #knowledgeispower #watercolor #drawing #artistoninstagram #theschooloflife #stopandsmelltheflowers #love

Been enjoying the warmer weather and cherry blossoms out my way, lately! Having such a rough winter this year helps one appreciate the welcome change of season. #cherryblossomseason #splotchmonsterisland #cherryblossomtrees #splotchmonster #art #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #artwork #drawing #watercolor #artonpaper #butterflies #beautyinnature #artistoninstagram #dmvartist #artistsoninstagram #loudounart #getoutside #takeawalk

Been enjoying the warmer weather and cherry blossoms out my way, lately! Having such a rough winter this year helps one appreciate the welcome change of season. #cherryblossomseason #splotchmonsterisland #cherryblossomtrees #splotchmonster #art #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #artwork #drawing #watercolor #artonpaper #butterflies #beautyinnature #artistoninstagram #dmvartist #artistsoninstagram #loudounart #getoutside #takeawalk

To be more childlike, you don’t have to give up being an adult. The fully integrated person is capable of being both an adult and a child simultaneously. Recapture the childlike feelings of wide-eyed excitement, spontaneous appreciation, cutting loose, and being full of awe and wonder at this magnificent universe.

Wayne Dyer #splotchmonsterisland #springtime #senseofwonder #squirrel #signsoflife #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterart #blossoms #art #artwork #artonpaper #drawing #watercolor #artistonistagram #artistsoninstagram #lookaround #takeawalk #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #dmvartist

To be more childlike, you don’t have to give up being an adult. The fully integrated person is capable of being both an adult and a child simultaneously. Recapture the childlike feelings of wide-eyed excitement, spontaneous appreciation, cutting loose, and being full of awe and wonder at this magnificent universe.

Wayne Dyer #splotchmonsterisland #springtime #senseofwonder #squirrel #signsoflife #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterart #blossoms #art #artwork #artonpaper #drawing #watercolor #artistonistagram #artistsoninstagram #lookaround #takeawalk #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #dmvartist

Here’s another original that sold at the NAEA Artisan Market, unexpectedly, and it wasn’t even finished. I originally planned to have this critter interacting with an animal that is native to the northern Virginia region, but someone had spotted it on display at my table and kindly insisted on purchasing it, though it wasn’t originally for sale. I’m so grateful, however, that someone would be so enthusiastic about something like this, and I hope it makes her smile every time she sees her new little friend. In the meantime, I hope something or someone makes you smile today, and sending big, warm splotch monster hugs to you all this weekend! #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #naea25 #naea2025 #artistoninstagram #arteducator #artistsoninstagram #artteacherlife #artonpaper #drawing #watercolor

Here’s another original that sold at the NAEA Artisan Market, unexpectedly, and it wasn’t even finished. I originally planned to have this critter interacting with an animal that is native to the northern Virginia region, but someone had spotted it on display at my table and kindly insisted on purchasing it, though it wasn’t originally for sale. I’m so grateful, however, that someone would be so enthusiastic about something like this, and I hope it makes her smile every time she sees her new little friend. In the meantime, I hope something or someone makes you smile today, and sending big, warm splotch monster hugs to you all this weekend! #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #naea25 #naea2025 #artistoninstagram #arteducator #artistsoninstagram #artteacherlife #artonpaper #drawing #watercolor

Eye spy blossoms blooming. #splotchmonster #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #artonpaper #watercolor #drawing #blossoms #spring #springtime #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

Eye spy blossoms blooming. #splotchmonster #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #artonpaper #watercolor #drawing #blossoms #spring #springtime #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart

Here’s another original one that sold during the NAEA conference last week, and only one of three that I could quickly snap a picture of before it was purchased. I was kind of surprised at how many people really liked this one in particular, and commented on it. I tend to make a lot of my monsters with smiley faces, which is funny, ‘cause I’m not the most smiley person. I also don’t subscribe to the “good vibes only” way of thinking, not that I have anything at all against positive thinking. The problem is when the positivity gets toxic and dismissive of the feelings of others who might be going through a difficult time. The pressure to be positive at all times can only make someone who is down, feel even more down, amplifying those negative emotions. That’s why I try to be mindful of my Splotch Monsters reflecting the full spectrum of human emotions, even if they’re happy most of the time. The fact that so many people seemed to be able to relate to this one, who is definitely not smiling, isn’t necessarily a bad thing at all, just a very real and human thing, even if it is only a little imaginary monster. #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #facialexpressions #art #artwork #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #artonpaper #drawing #watercolor #splotchmonster

Here’s another original one that sold during the NAEA conference last week, and only one of three that I could quickly snap a picture of before it was purchased. I was kind of surprised at how many people really liked this one in particular, and commented on it. I tend to make a lot of my monsters with smiley faces, which is funny, ‘cause I’m not the most smiley person. I also don’t subscribe to the “good vibes only” way of thinking, not that I have anything at all against positive thinking. The problem is when the positivity gets toxic and dismissive of the feelings of others who might be going through a difficult time. The pressure to be positive at all times can only make someone who is down, feel even more down, amplifying those negative emotions. That’s why I try to be mindful of my Splotch Monsters reflecting the full spectrum of human emotions, even if they’re happy most of the time. The fact that so many people seemed to be able to relate to this one, who is definitely not smiling, isn’t necessarily a bad thing at all, just a very real and human thing, even if it is only a little imaginary monster. #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterart #facialexpressions #art #artwork #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #artonpaper #drawing #watercolor #splotchmonster

NAEA 2025 has come and gone, and as always, it’s bittersweet. The speakers and presenters this year were super inspiring, and Louisville, Kentucky is a beautiful little city with so much to see and do. I want to thank everyone who supported Splotch Monster Island this year, whether you hung out and drew with me, bought a print, said hi, or helped me sell out all my books at the Artisan Market - it meant a ton to me and I’m so very grateful. I had a bunch of new, recently finished originals made and on display as examples at the Artisan Market, including the little gal featured at the beginning of this post, but so many people wanted to buy them, to my surprise, so unfortunately I won’t be able to share most of them with you because I didn’t get a chance to photograph or scan them. I guess I need to get busy making more! The next to last pic (the NAEA photo montage) is by @minimatisseart, by the way, who has an excellent video on YouTube about making Artist Trading Cards that my students love. I also hung a free Splotch Monster piece at the @kmacmuseum, who are currently showing an absolutely incredible exhibit featuring the mythical beast paintings of Brazilian folk artist Chico da Silva that I’ll post about in depth soon at @sloya72, and is a must-see in-person. Up next, Chicago, 2026! #naea2025 #2025naea #naealouisville2025 #naealouisville #naea #louisville #louisvilleky #louisvilleky #art #arteducationmatters #arteducation #artistoninstagram #artistsonininstagram #artwork #artonpaper #artteacherlife #creativity #naea25 #naea_arteducators

NAEA 2025 has come and gone, and as always, it’s bittersweet. The speakers and presenters this year were super inspiring, and Louisville, Kentucky is a beautiful little city with so much to see and do. I want to thank everyone who supported Splotch Monster Island this year, whether you hung out and drew with me, bought a print, said hi, or helped me sell out all my books at the Artisan Market - it meant a ton to me and I’m so very grateful. I had a bunch of new, recently finished originals made and on display as examples at the Artisan Market, including the little gal featured at the beginning of this post, but so many people wanted to buy them, to my surprise, so unfortunately I won’t be able to share most of them with you because I didn’t get a chance to photograph or scan them. I guess I need to get busy making more! The next to last pic (the NAEA photo montage) is by @minimatisseart, by the way, who has an excellent video on YouTube about making Artist Trading Cards that my students love. I also hung a free Splotch Monster piece at the @kmacmuseum, who are currently showing an absolutely incredible exhibit featuring the mythical beast paintings of Brazilian folk artist Chico da Silva that I’ll post about in depth soon at @sloya72, and is a must-see in-person. Up next, Chicago, 2026! #naea2025 #2025naea #naealouisville2025 #naealouisville #naea #louisville #louisvilleky #louisvilleky #art #arteducationmatters #arteducation #artistoninstagram #artistsonininstagram #artwork #artonpaper #artteacherlife #creativity #naea25 #naea_arteducators

Here are some sneak peeks at the faces of just a handful of the new Splotch Monsters in the works, all of which are still a work in progress. Which one are you feeling like today? Looking forward to folks getting to know them some more, soon! #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #drawing #watercolor #artonpaper #creatures #creativity #facialexpressions #monsterart

Here are some sneak peeks at the faces of just a handful of the new Splotch Monsters in the works, all of which are still a work in progress. Which one are you feeling like today? Looking forward to folks getting to know them some more, soon! #splotchmonsters #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #art #artwork #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #drawing #watercolor #artonpaper #creatures #creativity #facialexpressions #monsterart

A winter Splotch Dragon to reign in the new year. Looking forward to posting way more frequently as springtime approaches, as well as revealing some good news about a summer artist residency for Splotch Monster Island. Now back to hibernation mode, hoping you’re all doing well, in the meantime! #splotchmonsters #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #dragon #art #artwork #watercolors #watercolor #icedragon #winter #happynewyear #artistresidency #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #drawing #creativity #imagination #artistsoninstagram #artistoninstagram

A winter Splotch Dragon to reign in the new year. Looking forward to posting way more frequently as springtime approaches, as well as revealing some good news about a summer artist residency for Splotch Monster Island. Now back to hibernation mode, hoping you’re all doing well, in the meantime! #splotchmonsters #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #dragon #art #artwork #watercolors #watercolor #icedragon #winter #happynewyear #artistresidency #dmvartist #loudounart #loudouncountyartist #drawing #creativity #imagination #artistsoninstagram #artistoninstagram

You can find this little critter and many more in the new Before and After book of Splotch Monsters and the “Splotch Forms” they were made from, now available for purchase through Blurb Books! Use the one time only code BF2024 for half off the original price through December 1st. Link is in the bio! #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #blurbbooks #watercolor #drawing #art #artwork #artonpaper #creature #creativity #childrensbooksillustration #artbook #picturebook #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #selfpublishing #shareyourwork #showyourwork

You can find this little critter and many more in the new Before and After book of Splotch Monsters and the “Splotch Forms” they were made from, now available for purchase through Blurb Books! Use the one time only code BF2024 for half off the original price through December 1st. Link is in the bio! #splotchmonster #splotchmonsterisland #splotchmonsterart #splotchmonsters #blurbbooks #watercolor #drawing #art #artwork #artonpaper #creature #creativity #childrensbooksillustration #artbook #picturebook #dmvartist #loudouncountyartist #loudounart #artistoninstagram #artistsoninstagram #selfpublishing #shareyourwork #showyourwork

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