One of the most frequent questions I hear from passersby as I’m painting is “What’s that stuff you’re using?” It’s jelly gouache (pronounced “gwash”)! As far as I can tell, this is a newly-developed medium. I saw illustrators using it on Instagram and simply had to try it. Since then it’s become my go-to medium for a variety of projects, but it’s not without flaws. (I’m not paid/incentivized to promote/review this product, btw.) TL;DR: Mark the cups before you move them! Large square-cupped sets like the Himi set that I use come with a reference sheet to tell you which… Read more: What to know before trying jelly gouache

I helped a local business prepare for an upcoming street fair by drawing up some new signs using chalk markers. Designing these boards put me in a lettering-focused mindset, and I’ve been staring at fonts ever since. It’s a neat side of drawing that I’d never delved into much before. I never thought of myself as much of a graphic designer, but I’m starting to see the appeal!

My favorite yearly plein air event has come and gone again! This is the first year that I’ve been able to paint from the park that’s central to the event (previous years I’ve been chased under businesses’ awnings by the rain). It’s a beautiful neighborhood, and so many of the gardens and architecture beg to be painted. I eyed up some contenders for my subject in the hour before the competition started. Note to self: arrive early more often. While the above caught my eye, I eventually fell in love with a cozy cottage catching a few spots of sunlight… Read more: Camp Hill Plein Air 2025

Hiding from the rain (that never came) at the Mechanicsburg Art & Wine Walk, I painted this indoor scene of Revolutionary Hot Sauce while enjoying lots of great conversation. I love how artistically curious people are in this town! Great day; can’t wait for next year! Materials: Himi jelly gouache on Arches hot pressed watercolor paper