I’ve been a creative small-business owner for ten years now, but I’m still floored every time a “reach for the stars” opportunity becomes a reality. In fact, I’m surprised by my manifesting abilities–that I made my dreams a reality.

That my paintings are for sale in a fine art gallery is HUGE for me.

Even though I’ve run my photography & fine arts business for nearly a decade, impostor syndrome has skewed my view of my worth as an artist.

Rewind to 18 months ago, when I said out loud for the first time, “Maybe one day I can sell my paintings in a gallery.”

I didn’t fully believe that I could do it at first.

At the time, the fine art world felt daunting and unreachable to me. The truth is, I felt overwhelmed by the hurdles of establishing myself as a painter after years of working solely as a wedding and portrait photographer.

I told myself these lies, fueled by impostor syndrome:

• Artists who sell their work have to go to grad school first to be legit.
• I’m not good enough at painting for galleries to represent me.
• I need to pay my dues before I can aim for the goal of gallery representation.
• Painting is a distraction; I should be content to “just” be a wedding photographer and make money that way.

And then something in me shifted. I started to question my inner critic. As I began giving myself credit for all the work I had been doing, my impostor syndrome faded.

I really dug into what it was to BE an artist and all that comes with it. The rigorous training, vulnerable sharing, and courageous risking. The nitty-gritty business management duties, and the wild emotional struggles that come with stepping into this kind of life.

And I saw that I’ve been doing this work all along–not just for the last 18 months.

For the last ten years, I was doing the work of an artist, even with the presence of impostor syndrome.

In fact, I was still very much an artist when:

• I lacked a designated space in my home to paint.
• My work didn’t sell
• I wondered how many photography clients I’d book for the year.
• I didn’t believe I was an artist.

Over time, I realized I didn’t need the external validation from a graduate program or artist guild in order to be an artist. I could, in fact, simply evict impostor syndrome from my psyche.

I’ve learned that in order to be an artist I had to not only create my work, but also to sell my work. Which meant I had to figure out prices. And feel confident enough to share them next to the art.

Over these last 18 months, I’ve leveled up in so many ways, especially with how I feel about parting with work that’s been along the journey of helping me recover from trauma.

To reflect these shifts and to keep my work in alignment with the fine art gallery market, my fine art offerings will be changing over the next few weeks as I increase my prices.

I couldn’t have reached this dream of being a gallery-represented fine artist without the support of you–my collectors and clients. Thank you so much for valuing my art and believing in me! Thank you for not seeing me through the lens of impostor syndrome, but seeing me for who I really am.

I’m sharing this with you because I want to make sure that as my VIP supporters in this, that you get first dibs on my work for a little longer before the general public.

Now go feast your eyes on your favorite works in my online shop, and let’s nip impostor syndrome in the bud!

The post Overcoming Impostor Syndrome by Stepping into my Worth appeared first on Courtney Potter Studio.

If you haven’t seen an Instagram or Youtube video of pour painting, here is a peek inside the rabbit hole I got sucked down, using my own videos and photos from my experiments with this style.

Immediately I was mesmerized by the sheer messiness of pour painting. It’s the closest thing to finger-painting, which I hadn’t enjoyed since I was 4 or 5. I watched the video over and over, then went to the art store to get my hands on some fluid medium so I could start playing.

Parma, cornelius injury: right hamstring problem dianobol biceps – articles – mitchferniani.

It’s been 2 years since I made my first pour painting, and I don’t plan on stopping any time soon. I love this style so much, that in addition to making and selling my fluid paintings, I now teach monthly workshops!

Today I want to elaborate on 5 essential supplies you need to make a successful pour painting at home!

Below is my complete pour painting supply list. This blog is part 1 of a 3-part series, focusing on essential supplies for any pour painting, #1-#6 on this list. In my next post I’ll focus on the optional supplies (#7-#10) that take your paintings to the next level. My last post will dive into my favorite pour painting techniques.

What You Need to Make Your Own Pour Painting At Home:

• Pouring Medium  

• Acrylic Paint

• Canvas, Cardboard, Panel, or any hard, thick surface

• Plastic Trifecta: Cups, Spoons, and Tarp

• Gloves

• Silicone Oil (optional)

• Blow Torch  (optional)

• Alcohol Ink (optional)

• Varnish (optional)

1. Pouring Mediums

What the heck is a pouring medium?

This is a magical liquid additive that makes your paint flow. It is essentially a paint thinner, but it also improves the consistency and overall integrity of the paint. That means your creation dries without cracking or fading!

Basically, your pouring medium is the secret sauce of pour painting!

Other perks of using a pouring medium are that they extend drying time to give you more time to play around with your composition, finish up the edges of your canvas, or perfect your cells. (More on cells in point #5)

I’m new to pour painting. Which pouring medium should I use?

For students brand new to pour painting, I recommend using Floetrol for your pouring medium. This is the biggest bang for your buck, and you can find it at Walmart or Home Depot (or order it online!). One gallon runs about 20 bucks, which you can turn into dozens of beautiful paintings.

The downside of Floetrol is that it mutes and darkens the colors of your pour painting when dry. There are a few ways you can beat this effect, which I’ll explain in point #9.

I like using Floetrol whenever I’m learning a new technique due to its cost-effectiveness. I find that when I’m not worried about “wasting” materials I can create boldly without my inhibitions holding me back. You can apply this mindset to all the materials above, opting for cardboard vs. a canvas and leftover paint vs. brand new colors.

I’m an intermediate or professional artist. Which artist-grade pouring medium is the right one for me?

For the majority of my own work, though, I use either Liquitex Pouring Medium or GAC 800, a Golden medium. Because these are high-quality artist mediums, they are more expensive than Floetrol (a gallon of Liquitex runs $70-$100 at most art stores), but the high quality finish is worth it for me, especially if I plan on selling my pour paintings.

Both Liquitex and GAC 800 differ from Floetrol in that they don’t dull the colors when dry. They have glossier finishes than the matte look of the Floetrol,

Liquitex is the best-known brand on the market for this styled and is geared intermediate to advanced artists. Because it’s the hottest brand, it’s often out-of-stock.

GAC 800 is essentially the same medium under a different brand name. The main perk of GAC 800 is the high pouring medium to paint ratio. You need 10 parts pouring medium to 1 part acrylic paint, which means you end up saving money if you’re using expensive high-flow brand name fluid acrylics.

So in sum, if you’re new to painting and looking to use the most affordable materials, go with Floetrol. If you extra cash to spend (happy birthday!), go for Liquitex or GAC 800.

2. The Best Paints for Pour Painting

What kind of paint should I use if I’m a beginner?

Any brand of acrylic paint will do for fluid painting (NOT oil, watercolor, tempera, or gouache paints!).

For beginners, I recommend Craft Smart Acrylics, which you can get at Michael’s. They sell starter packs of 24 for $14 ($0.50/paint), and they come in tons of beautiful colors and finishes. I personally LOVE the metallic colors and paints with glitter added (can’t say no to glitter!) and have yet to try their glow-in-the-dark paints (so fun!).

Which brand of paint should I use if I want professional quality paintings?

For more advanced students, high-flow Golden acrylics are my preferred paints. You can test out colors with their 4 oz sizes ($6-$10), or once you know what colors you love enough to use in large quantities, splurge for their 16 oz sizes at Michael’s.  The larger tubes range from $25-65 at Michael’s depending on rarity of color. I like to wait until they go on sale at Jerry’s Artarama.

What’s the ratio of medium to paint?

You’ll need a higher fluid medium to paint ration if using Craft Smart Acrylics, since they’re thicker than the high-flow fluid acrylics. A little goes a long way with the latter, which is one reason why I love them.

No matter which acrylic paint you’re using, when you add it to your fluid medium you’ll want the mixture to flow easily off your spoon. If there are any gunks of paint in it, keep mixing, and add more medium.

3. Canvases, Panels, and Other Painting Surfaces

What surfaces can I paint on?

Stretched canvases and artist panels are my favorite surfaces to paint on, but go ahead and try out any hard surface! Glass, cardboard, and even thick paper are worth trying to see how you like it. (The paper may warp, but cardboard is usually fine and good for testing out pouring techniques since it’s usually free!)

Canvases are the most popular surfaces in most pour painting workshops, but I personally like throwing in a few wood panels so students can compare the final looks. The harder and less porous the surface, the more easily the paint flows.

The best part about canvases is they come in SO many sizes and shapes. My Voyage Collection is a series of pour paintings on round canvases, which is a lovely, organic look for this style (no hard edges!).

Mini 3×3 or 4×4 canvases make adorable pieces of art for small spaces and are fun to practice on (and a stable of all my pour painting workshops!) So far the largest canvas I’ve poured on is 20×40, but I’m hoping to go bigger soon!

4. Trifecta of Plastic: Plastic Cups, Spoons, and Tarps

How do I prepare my surface for pour painting and mix the paint?

This is the cheapest part. You’ll need plastic cups for holding the mixture and spoons for stirring (or wooden popsicle sticks).

I like to use small clear plastic cups so I can easily see the paint color. I like the 9 oz Solo Brand since they’re small and easy to wash and reuse.

Wooden popsicle sticks are great for one-time use, but I prefer to use plastic spoons and reuse them.

Before you start pouring paint, you’ll want to make sure you have a plastic cover, newspaper, or tarp on your table (or floor) before getting down and dirty. Trust me, this is a necessity. I’ve spilled one too many cups of turquoise paint on my carpet.

How do I dry my pour paintings?

You’ll need a flat surface (like a tabletop or floor), leftover plastic cups for propping your paintings up, and a protective covering for the surface.

When I was painting out of my apartment, I didn’t have the luxury of letting my paintings dry on the floor since my fur babies loved walking all over them. If you have a garage or shelf high out of reach, I’d recommend starting there.

It’s important that the surface is level, otherwise the paint will pool onto one side of the painting, altering your original composition and exposing your canvas. The paint will clump in areas, ruining the smooth, seamless finish that makes pour paintings look so effortless.

For a protective covering, I use cheap plastic tarps from Home Depot. This pack of 6 for $6 is my preferred buy, since they are large enough to hold lots of paintings and can be reused.

But really, you can use any flat protective surface like newspaper or cardboard to let your paintings dry.

It’s also imperative that you prop up your canvases on cups, drying racks, or bottlecaps when they’re still wet, so that the paintings don’t stick to the protective covering when they dry. I just rinse my paintings cups and flip them upside down to dry my paintings.

5. Gloves

Do I really need to wear gloves?

Totally up to you! I encourage my students to feel one with the paint if that’s something they value. Part of the fun of this style is the sheer messiness. Who doesn’t wanna feel like a kid again? Floetrol isn’t toxic and washes off easily.

However, GAC800 and Liquitex are a bit rougher to the skin and dry funky. If you’re anal like me, you’ll be picking at your hands forever to get the dried medium off. I’ve gotten a few abrasions from scrubbing my hands too aggressively after using Liquitex, so I usually stick to gloves.

I know I threw a lot at ya, so let’s recap these pour painting basics.

For a basic pour painting, you’ll need these 5 items:

1. Pouring Medium- Floetrol for Beginners, Liquitex or GAC800 for advanced artists

2. Acrylic Paint- CraftSmart Paints for Beginners, Golden High-Flow Acrylics for advanced artists

3. Painting Surface- Canvases or Panels

4. Trifecta of Plastic- Cups, Spoons, and Tarp

5. Gloves

In my next blog in this series, I’ll walk you through additional ingredients that can take your pour paintings to the next level!

Now go forth and pour paint, and share your results with me! What are your favorite supplies for pour paintings? What questions do you have for me? Comment below!

The post Pour Painting Guide | 5 Essential Supplies You Need Before You Start appeared first on Courtney Potter Studio.

There have been so many times since that day that I’ve doubted my ability to make it as an artist. But this week, as I celebrate my solo show at my studio space with Horse & Buggy Press & Friends, I am reminded that my dreams are worth nurturing. And that I have more manifesting abilities than I ever realized.

I am healing trauma through art, growing into the person I’ve always wanted to be.

On Friday I set up my painting display on the gallery wall at Horse & Buggy Press & Friends.

When I hung the last painting, I felt a wave of energy pulse through me.

33 pieces of artwork I’ve made in just 2 years stood before me. All for sale and ready to find their future owners.

I felt amazed at just how much beauty I had created.

Every single painting on this wall holds emotional significance for me. There’s something deeply satisfying about seeing them all in one place. As painful and difficult as my trauma recovery has been, these paintings highlight all the passion, joy, and color I’ve manifested in my life since leaving my abuser and beginning to paint.

Each painting on this gallery wall tells a powerful story of my healing after trauma. The act of expressing myself through my art allowed me to release my emotions and embrace joy, in hope that you can too.

There’s the painting that started it all — my full moon ocean scene.

One week after I painted this symbol of illumination, intuition, and the Divine Feminine, I woke up to the abuse I was experiencing in my life. I summoned the strength to listen to my intuition, and I left my relationship and began rebuilding my life.

My floral paintings celebrate the promise of new life. Painting them helped me reject a scarcity mindset– that I am not enough–and claim abundance.

After leaving my relationship, I noticed that I felt joy when I painted. So instead of waiting for the feeling to happen, I brought that joy with me everywhere I went.

I painted flowers on porches, in bars, on first dates in public places, and on the sides of mountains.

A gladiolus for strength. Roses for new beginnings. Poppies for magic-making.

By painting flowers, I meditated on beauty, and made that beauty available to you to enjoy. Instead of dwelling on my painful past, I released it. I embraced joy, so that you can too.

And there’s “Emergence,” the painting I made in 2017 when I was coming to terms with the sexual trauma I had endured that kept me afraid of expressing my queer identity.

I wanted to feel pride in my authentic self instead of the shame that was engrained in me growing up in a fundamentalist evangelical community. I wanted to come out of the closet, even though I felt afraid of being judged. Even though I still judged myself.

So to manifest courage in my outer world, I slapped reds and blacks, teals and golds onto a blank canvas. I masterfully shaped my art with the same confidence, playfulness, and autonomy that I wanted to give to my sexual identity and self-expression.

Let’s not forget the sweet trio of watercolor spirit animals I painted while traveling throughout the South last summer.

I painted the lion with my childhood friend Julie in her new house in Texas, flinging paint around with her twin boys.

Ten days later I would drive down to Georgia with my partner Adam to adopt our kitten, Thorn, and swim in the ocean at night under a full moon with my love. I painted the tiger at a coffeeshop that week, next to Adam as we dreamed up kitten names together.

Then there’s all the paintings I made with my friend Jill, who died a few months ago.

I love those first watercolors I painted by her side at my kitchen table in my Bachelor Girl Pad, my new kitten Calypso at our feet batting at my markers.

There’s the orange and pink fluid painting that resembled a gemstone she loved, that I made at her suggestion. Then there’s the weeping elephant on canvas, my expression of my grief over her death, a testament of my love for her.

And then there’s those paintings I made with my middle school boys during their fluid painting unit this winter.

I now worked at my dream job teaching middle school art. A job that solidified my desire to step into this new part of my calling. It’s time for me to help others tap into their own treasure troves of creativity.

I remember how the boys’ eyes widened in anticipation as I poured blues and greens onto a canvas. Together we watched the colors swirl and drip off the sides. Later they would display their very own pour paintings in an art exhibition at school. And they would feel proud.

These are just a few of the stories the pop out at me when I gaze at these paintings on my gallery display. But there are so many more.

I’m excited about all the paintings that have yet to be created and shared with you, so paradormirmejor.org that we can heal from life’s difficulties together and meditate on beauty.

Art is my compass.

It guides me to my deepest truth. It carried me to freedom from abuse. It illuminates my way when the whole world around me feels filled with darkness.

I paint to find my own healing. To understand wounds, to release pain, to embrace joy.

And I paint for you. To remind you of your own power. Your own truth. To bring light and color and inspiration into your own dark places.  

May these paintings help you unleash your wild spirit self and connect you to your creative impulses. For your creativity will steer you back to yourself when you feel lost.

Want to exchange more stories of healing trauma and embracing joy through art?

Join me on Thursday 2/28 for my first art reception of 2019. I’ll have my paintings up in the gallery at Horse & Buggy Press & Friends for a 10 day pop-up show and am so stoked to share the goodness with you.

Entrance is free, and I’ll have snacks + wine for my guests. Come on by after work for happy hour and a happy night of art and creativity!

The Details:

• Thursday 2/28 @ 5-8pm
• Horse & Buggy Press
• 1116 Broad St. Suite 101, Durham NC 27705

RSVP to my art reception here!

The post 3 Years Later: Reflections on Healing Trauma through Art appeared first on Courtney Potter Studio.

In past years, I’ve often felt stuck in my sadness over failed relationships and lost love.

This year, even though I am over the moon about my relationship to my partner and the love we’ve found and partnership we’ve built, I am remembering my friend Jill who recently passed, and am missing her.

And I’m thinking about elephants.

I know, that’s a weird thing to be thinking about on a day that celebrates heteronormative romance.

Let me back up and explain.

I spent last Valentine’s Day with Jill on my couch, my cat Calypso on her lap. We had decided to eschew social norms that day by watching I, Tonya on Netflix, indulging our 90’s nostalgia and penchant for dark films. We even exchanged gifts

Neither of us felt like elevating romance over the intimacy we shared as close friends, so we made a date out of it.

It was a perfect Valentine’s Day with my friend. I didn’t know then that it would be our last holiday together.

2 weeks after Jill died, I made this elephant painting.

When Jill died, I hadn’t painted big in MONTHS and felt stuck in my sadness and overwhelm. I felt threatened by my big feelings and was running away from them instead of releasing them.

One day I woke up and knew that the only ticket out of my stuckness was returning to the easel — my safe space for honoring and expressing my feelings.

When I finished the painting, I felt the way I do after a really good run in the woods– breathless, flooded with contentment, connected to something larger than myself.

There wasn’t even space for grief in that moment. I just felt pure love for my friend, and I felt grateful for the time we had to love each other when she was alive.

It was only after I created this elephant painting that I would learn about the symbolism of the animal.

In India the animal is called Ganesh, a harbinger of happiness and health. People historically associate the elephant with the root chakra–our foundation.

When Jill died, my foundation felt imploded, but the act of painting this elephant helped me heal my grief and overwhelm just a little bit more.

With each brushstroke of this beautiful creature, I felt myself strengthen through her pure “elephantness.” Those elegant ears that take in messages from the herd, her prized tusks that defend her territory, those kind, wise eyes that recognize the pain of her kin and grieves when they die.

By painting my elephant I was giving myself permission to feel what I feel. And to not stay stuck in that. Jill would have wanted me to laugh again, and I felt determined to get there. I knew I had a right to joy, happiness, and health and that these were basic rights of all creatures on earth.

So this Valentine’s Day, whether you’re coupled up or broken up, straight or queer, aromantic or the world’s biggest romantic, I hope you know that you deserve love and joy, health and happiness. Surround yourself with those who feel like kin today. Feast on beauty.

Need an extra nudge? Head on over to my online painting gallery for a burst of color today. From peony bouquets to watercolor spirit animals, I’ve got lots of artwork for you to enjoy this V-day!

Prefer to see my work in person?

My pop up show at Horse & Buggy Press is just around the corner, and I’ll have lots of paintings for you to feast your eyes on (including this elephant painting and my large spirit animals!)

I’ve got FIVE events planned for you during my 10-day show: 4 chill open studio days on the weekends, and a more formal evening reception on Thursday 2/28.

THE DETAILS

• Pop-Up Show Dates: 2/23-3/3

• Horse & Buggy Press and Friends | 1116 Broad St. Suite 101, Durham, NC 27705

• Art Reception: Thursday 2/28 from 5-8pm

• Open Studios: Saturday 2/23, Sunday 2/24, Saturday 3/2, and Sunday 3/3 from 10am-3pm

Never been to Horse & Buggy Press and not sure where to go?

This sweet little gallery and studio space rests between Deeluxe Chicken and Watts Grocery on Broad Street right next to the School of Science and Math. You can park in either lot adjacent to the Watts Grocery building, or along the street.

(Bonus: Deeluxe Chicken has a killer friend chicken sandwich, and Watts Grocery has dank drinks. Go ahead and spend a coupla hours enjoying all that this side of town has to offer!)

The post Why I’m Celebrating V-Day with an Elephant Painting appeared first on Courtney Potter Studio.

A 10-year-old asked me this question while we were working on a fluid painting exercise together at my workshop last fall. We were both covered in paint, silly with the floaty feeling that comes from being so openly and joyfully absorbed in creating together.

I answered quickly and reflexively. “Not painting.”

Bella was surprised at my answer. She thought I would have told her a story about messing up a masterpiece.

But my biggest art fail is all the times I decided not to make art.

I’m actually really good at coming up with excuses not to paint or draw or make music. I’m too tired. Right now’s a bad time. I’m in a bad headspace. I need more time to let my idea marinate. I’m too hung over. I don’t have enough focus, time, skills, money, art supplies, inspiration, qualifications, etc. You name it, I’ve said it.

Sure, I’ve messed up plenty of paintings. I’ve spilled the “wrong” color on my canvas. I’ve overworked florals that I should have left alone because I doubted myself and didn’t know when to walk away. Heck, my cat even ran through a wet painting not once, but twice! But I don’t consider these accidents and missteps failures.

I see all the times I decided to paint as a huge victory, regardless of the outcome.

Because I made something from nothing. Because it required bravery. Since I did something positive with my energy instead of sitting on my butt. If I painted (or picked up my guitar, or snapped a picture with my iPhone), I still created something truly original. Even if it’s just a few loose magenta brushstrokes on cheap paper. Even if everyone else thinks my art sucks. And even if I think my art sucks.

Because in the end, it’s just paint.

If I hate what I’ve created, I can just gesso the shit outta that painting and start over. And the layers underneath the white gesso will serve as an interesting, textured foundation for the do-over.

This kind of open acceptance in my art practice – of saying yes to things both within and out of my control-  has transformed the way I live my life. It’s helped me find my flow–and stay in it.

It’s helped me detach from outcomes I might otherwise have tried to control. I’ve learned to bend and flex and not take myself so seriously. It’s taught me to “woman up” and just do the damn thing.

Like having a vulnerable conversation with my partner even though I’m afraid of being rejected. Or saying “yes” to teaching a workshop even though I’ve never taught a room full of people before. Knowing I’ll awkwardly fumble my way through the unknown because that’s part of the deal when you breach the wilderness, But still knowing in my gut it will be worth it in the end because I’ll grow throughout the process. And maybe even have fun along the way.

What’s one action you can take this week to combat the negative voices in your head discouraging you from taking a risk?

Set a timer for fifteen minutes and do that one thing. Learn a new guitar chord. Call that friend you’ve lost touch with because of your busy schedule. Write a haiku. Put your unique mark on the world’s blank canvas. Life’s too short to hold back.

Looking for even more support and inspiration? On Saturday 4/13, join me for an afternoon of saying “yes” to your creative urges in my Find Your Flow: Fluid Painting Workshop. I guarantee you’ll leave glowing: smiling from head to toe (and possibly covered in paint!).  You’ll feel proud of your creations, amazed at what you are capable of, and glad you said yes to your creative urges and took a risk.

You’ll pour paint, watch the colors swirl together, and get messy. Together we’ll reclaim that childlike boldness we’re all born with.  You do not need any previous art experience to participate in this workshop. Everyone is welcome!

The next Workshop Date is Saturday, April 13 from 1-3:30pm! Register now, because there are only 9 spots left!

The Details:

• Saturday April 13

• 1-3:30 at the ArtsCenter in Carrboro

• 300 E Main St, Ste g, Carrboro, NC 27510

• $35 tuition + $15 supply fee

Breathe. Let go. Find your flow. Enjoy the flow of fluid painting.

Your Instructor for the April 13 Find Your Flow Workshop

Courtney Potter is a self-taught abstract artist who believes in the universal power of creativity.

She began painting as a way to process her emotions after experiencing trauma. Opening herself up to access a deeper well of her creative power literally saved her life.

Potter has built her career around expressing herself through art and helping others cultivate and celebrate their unique voices. She believes painting is a powerful tool that anyone can access at any time to transform their pain into meaning.

Potter is a member of Artspace, Visual Art Exchange, and the Wedding Photojournalist Association and has exhibited her art along the East Coast. You can schedule a time to view her work at her studio in Durham, North Carolina.

The post Face Your Fears and Find Your Flow in my Fluid Painting Workshop Series appeared first on Courtney Potter Studio.

It’s not that unlike falling in love at first sight. Something deep in your gut responds to a certain color scheme or composition behind an abstract painting.

That spark lights a fire under your belly, and the painting is yours.

Today, I’d like to share the story behind a recent abstract painting that went to its forever home in a massage studio.

“Self is a Boundless Sea” is a 24×36 abstract acrylic painting that celebrates the feeling you get when you stop making yourself small and allow yourself to take up space and to be your true, boundless Self.

For me, the feeling evoked when I look at this painting is love in all its colors. Love for myself. For others. For my creative life.

This abstract painting celebrates love of the infinite, swirling, ever-moving energy in this universe that I am a part of and is a part of me.

This piece is especially dear to me and was one of my first big pieces.

I painted it the week of my 30th birthday, in an act of effortless, joyful creation.

Recently divorced, I was working out of my tiny but just-right sunroom in my Bachelor Girl Pad. I had recently realized I had fallen in love with my partner Adam and was opening my heart more than I ever had before to another.

I felt like I was swimming in a sea of love, and it stemmed from being my authentic self around others who affirmed that infinite treasure in me.

That this abstract painting called out to massage therapist Megan Rowell is no surprise to me.

Megan is a healer, bodywork therapist, and light-worker who has held space for me during my hardest moments of 2018.

I can’t think of a better owner for this painting, since the work she does is rooted in honoring the Self, tending to our bodies in this ever-changing life, and celebrating those deeper parts in us that intuitively know what we need.

I’m overjoyed that “Self is a Boundless Sea” made its way to Megan’s studio, and I can’t wait to look at it the next time I’m getting a massage with her.

This week I sat down with Megan to learn more about her calling to be a healer and how my abstract paintings helps her with her work.

I love the magical connection between the painting and its bad-ass owner and am excited to share this with you. Read on below!

C: Tell me about your massage business. How did you realize this was your calling?

M: I went to massage therapy school because I didn’t know what was next. I thought I’d enjoy the personal connection to others and physicality of the work. As a college drop out, it was a practical decision. This year marks six years of having a private massage therapy practice and I have no doubt that this is exactly the work that I want to be doing.

Offering bodywork suits my strengths in a way that leaves me satisfied and grateful. I love the careful listening. I love the way I get to pair skill, intuition and curiosity. And I love that I get to work in a language beyond words, the communication that happens through touch, stillness and simply being present to others in their pain.

C: For readers who haven’t been to your massage studio, can you paint a picture of what the interior looks like? What does the space look like? Describe it in as much sensory detail as possible.

Megan: My studio feels like a grounding, calming space. I love working here and being here.

When I describe it to new folks, I say it’s the sweet green bungalow on Broad, the one with the porch swing.

Inside there are tall ceilings, beautiful crown molding and floors that creak just right.

The table is warm when the weather invites it to be. I ground myself with my ritual of warming my oil and hands before beginning my work.

I have enough natural light to keep a couple of plants alive.

Every single time I walk into my studio, I think to myself, “I am so damn grateful that I get to work here.”

C: Which abstract paintings of mine have you displayed in your space? What about those paintings drew you in?

M: In recent months, my studio has also hosted some new paintings by you!

Like the plants, these paintings feel alive. Depending on the light or my mood, they appear different to me.

I am currently hosting 25 of your pieces, which are on display in my massage studio and also available for purchase for my clients.

I’ve already bought two of your pieces, since your work speaks to me every day when I’m working!

The first one was one of your minis that I fell in love with at your Nido Show. It had swirls and sparkles that appeal to that little flicker of whimsy I occasionally indulge in.

But the one that has spoken to me in a deep way is “Self Is A Boundless Sea”. I wanted to purchase it before I even new the name, but the decision felt even more right after hearing how she came to be.

I hung this piece right behind where clients sit when we are talking before and after a session. When I look at it, I feel spaciousness and hope. Though I try not to make it into an image, sometimes I see a radiant pregnant body flickering in the gold.

C: What do you want your clients to feel when they are in your space? How does my artwork help achieve this feeling for your clients?

M: I had a new client a couple of weeks ago who said she felt like she should take her shoes off when she entered my office. To me, it meant that it felt like a home. This is my hope: that when folks enter, they feel the ease and warmth of home.

Having your paintings certainly adds to the space feeling welcoming and intentional. I think it would be enough to make the space very comfortable but why not make it so very beautiful too?

When people talk about “Self is a Boundless Sea,” they remark how it feels galactic. I thinks that’s what these works evoke–a sense of wonder and openness and mystery. Much like how healing the body seems to me.

Every time I take a moment to reflect on how your artwork fits in the space, I’m reminded of how right they are and how grateful I am to host them.

C: What have some of your clients said about my paintings that you’ve displayed in your space? Which is their favorite?

M: My clients noticed the paintings right away! I walked back into the room after a client was getting settled on the table and she was resting on the side of her face just marveling at the painting beside her.

“Self is A Boundless Sea” is the one folks notice and comment on most, but occasionally someone will look through the door to the smaller office where I write notes and see the other larger painting, “You Are Enough.”

This abstract painting has a lot of pink and feels cheerful. I appreciate having such a happy piece where I do the less enticing aspects of my work, like write emails or work on spreadsheets.

C: Anything else you’d like to add about your studio space, my artwork, or working together?

M:I’m super grateful for connecting with each other through our women’s entrepreneur group WE Collective. I have met so many brilliant women in this community, who continue to support and inspire me.

Getting to collaborate with you has been exciting. I love the way you approach your business: with such heart, vulnerability and moving storytelling. You’ve inspired me to do my work with even more intuition and creativity.

Are you looking for inspiring artwork for your workspace that helps you ground yourself? Browse my painting gallery for inspiration, and I’ll bring the artwork that calls your name to you to see it in your space, free of charge.

The post How One Abstract Painting Found Its Forever Home | The Story Behind “Self is a Boundless Sea” appeared first on Courtney Potter Studio.

I know my introverted pace isn’t always conducive to holiday parties, but this year I’m choosing to honor my desires and retreat to my healing space whenever I need to.

This holiday season, I’m immensely thankful for my cozy new art studio at Horse and Buggy Press, which has has satisfied my introverted cocooning cravings.

It’s a healing space where I can kick off my shoes, turn up the tunes, and lose myself to my thoughts and feelings, uninterrupted.

I feel at home in the sensory details of my studio. The softness of my pink shag rug, the grounding scent of lemongrass incense, and the colorful paintings resting in their perfect places–every detail offers me comfort. I can be myself here.

I feel such gratitude for this healing space that serves as a womb for my creative desires.

What spaces are you thankful for this Thanksgiving? Do you make it a point during the holidays to carve out time for yourself?

For those of you who are struggling this holiday season, please be gentle with yourselves. Go straight to your favorite physical or creative spaces and engage in grounding activities.

Whether it’s walking by a stream…

…sleeping in an extra hour in your own bedroom…

…or soaking in the bathtub at your mother-in-law’s house…

remember to L O V E yourself in and through all the hard emotions that the holidays can trigger.

Just like the season, this too will pass.

This Thanksgiving, I’d like to share with you my gratitude for those life-giving healing spaces that allow me to unwind and truly feel at home. 

So I’m throwing the BIGGEST sale yet, and it starts NOW! Everything in my online shop is 30% off from now until midnight Tuesday.

 Have you been eyeing a vibrant round painting from my Voyage Collection that will look good in your bedroom corner? Or maybe there’s a large turquoise painting from my Seascape Series that would look good over your bathtub? Now’s the time to snag it up!

Here’s a peek at some of my sale items. These round paintings Comprar cialis generico barato en españa now start at $102 instead of $145!

With the BLACKFRIDAY discount code, you can get stocking stuffers for $35-44! Choose from a variety of framed mini paintings like these:

This holiday season, commemorate your favorite spaces with original artwork that rejuvenates and inspires you.

Use the code BLACKFRIDAY at checkout to get 30% off your order!

This is the biggest discount I’ve ever offered! Make sure you snag your favorite painting by Tuesday 11/27 because the offer expires at midnight.

The post Home as a Healing Space appeared first on Courtney Potter Studio.

I wanted to sound out my sorrows on my grand piano and play with my new art supplies. I had just started dabbling in watercolor painting and loved the pleasure and power I felt when I was busy creating.

I wanted to take up space.

But my partner quickly shut me down when I shared my vision with him. “The piano is too big,” he said.

And just like that, I abdicated my power. I had already given up my right to park in the driveway in order to claim the upstairs office for my wedding photography business. This new dream seemed costly, and I didn’t want to pay the price.

At night, I had a recurring dream of painting that empty room but bleeding out on the floor in childbirth before it was finished. I would wake up in a sweat, a thick, gloomy frustration lingering like a black cloud on the days following the dream.

No matter how much my partner tried to control the size of my desires, I hungered for expansion. I couldn’t ignore my ever-growing longing to take up space.

I wanted more space of my own to lose myself to creating, feeling, and imagining. This longing was alive and growing, like a child within my womb that would soon need to emerge.

I finally said “yes” to myself and vowed to never again forfeit my right to take up space.

I left my partner and began my healing journey.

My healing was neither easy nor linear. Sometimes, I felt I was worse off than when I was in my relationship. On those days the expansive skies and unfenced pastures of my life felt overwhelming, and I longed for the cage I had known.

But I persisted. One step forward, two steps back, and still I expanded.

I moved to four zip codes in twelve months, taking up more physical space with each new residence. Though I always had at least one room to myself, I had no designated soulful space to create. So I painted on porches, in bars, on first dates in public places, and on the sides of mountains. 

I moved again, this time with a roommate and her dog. I painted in the sunroom, building a barricade to keep the pets from stepping in wet paint (which they sometimes breached). I longed for a creative room of my own, with doors I could close. I hired a business coach and built a new website. I applied for artist residencies and got denied. I applied for artist grants and got denied again.

But I kept creating, dreaming, expanding. I continued to take up space.

I spilled my jar of ultramarine blue ink on the carpet and nailed holes into every wall to hang my work up. I filled up Every. Damn. Inch. of that 40 square-foot sunroom with my paintings and boudoir photography. By day I edited LGBTQ weddings on my iMac, and by night I flung paint onto blank canvases.

I kept applying for grants and putting out feelers for studio space. I didn’t stop allowing myself to take up space.

Last fall I got a text from my dear friend Lis about an art studio opening in Durham with Horse & Buggy Press and Friends. “This space is perfect for you,” she told me.

My jaw dropped. I had been searching for studio space for six months. I had just missed the deadline for a studio with Artspace, and I had decided to grin and bear it; I would apply again next March.

Lis told me the studio was near East Campus in the hip part of town, located a few blocks away from where I lived with my abusive partner. But it was 5 times larger than my sunroom, and had doors I could close. And it had a gallery in the front, where I could sell my art.

And it was within my budget.

I texted Dave, the owner, immediately. “It’s exactly what I’m looking for,” I told him.

Two weeks later, he gave me the key to my new studio.

I moved in to my new studio this week, on the night of the full moon, three years after embarking on my healing journey after abuse.

As I hung up my fine art boudoir photographs on one wall, my Dreamscape Collection of abstract paintings on another, I erupted into silly, joyful fits of laughter.

I wasn’t weeping anymore. I wasn’t just surviving. I was thriving. And it felt fucking fantastic.

After unpacking the last box of art supplies, I lit incense, lay down on the cold concrete studio floor, and marveled at this enormous physical space that was fully mine, that represented the psychic and creative space I had birthed, nurtured, and tended to so persistently over these last three years.

I couldn’t help but think back three years to that empty room in my house. I hadn’t filled it up then because I didn’t know that I deserved to take up space. I had carried grief over this for three years, and I was finally ready to let it go.

I had completely, totally, finally demolished that empty room. And erected something sturdier that could fit the fullness of my dreams.

I had finally grown accustomed to taking up space instead of apologizing for the size of my desires.

What space do you need for yourself today, this week, this season, to feel comfortable?

Whether its a basement room where you nerd out over your rock collection or an off-site science lab where you conduct your academic research, you deserve all the space you need to tend to your version of creative, soulful living.

I invite you to not give up on your dreams. Your desires are not too big. You deserve safety and autonomy. You deserve a space of your own to do whatever lights you up.

You deserve to take up space.

And it doesn’t have to pay the bills to be legit. This physical studio does not make me an artist. I’m an artist because I compost my pain and create beauty from it. This studio is just the incubator for my dreams, my tears, my imaginings, my paintings, my varied embodiments of my pain, my Truth.

Want to take up space with me? Join me on Thursday, February 28 at my new studio for my first art reception of 2019! 

I’ll have my work up in the gallery for a 10-day pop-up show and am so stoked to share the goodness with you and show off my space. Entrance is free, and I’ll have snacks + wine for my guests. Come on by after work for happy hour and happy night of art!

The Details:

• Thursday, February 28 from 5-8pm
• Horse & Buggy Press and Friends 
• 1116 Broad Street, Suite 101, Durham, NC 27705

RSVP to my art reception here!

The post How I Said Yes to Myself and Began to Take Up Space Like I Deserved appeared first on Courtney Potter Studio.

If you’re anything like me and you dislike the environment where you’re working, you’re probably staring at the back of someone’s head, fervently studying the seconds hand on the wall clock.

You’re itching to be somewhere else, somewhere more comfortable, so you can be productive without feeling like you’re losing your mind.

But what if your workplace WAS that beautiful safe haven for you? What if the space felt more like your living room—with plants and vibrant wall art—and less like an impersonal space with too much overhead fluorescent lighting?

I’m passionate about making art accessible in the everyday. Beauty and inspiration shouldn’t be found only during after-hours and weekends.

So this summer I installed 56 pieces of my art in Nido, a rad Durham coworking space with an on-site Montessori preschool and a mission to support local artists.

Nido began in the living room of cofounder Tiffany Frye back in 2014, when seven families gathered with the intention of building community by working together with their children close by.

Now they’ve expanded in huge ways, but still maintain the cozy living room feel of their early days by partnering with artists to fill their walls. (Curious to learn more about Nido’s history? Here’s an in-depth New York Times article about this unconventional organization’s journey since its inception.)

For six weeks, this summer, my paintings will add color and joy for the entrepreneurs (and their kiddos!) who daily use the space.

I interviewed co-founder Tiffany Frye about how Nido supports local artists and which paintings of mine are the biggest hits among her members. Read the Q&A below for an inside look at how Nido’s members are enjoying my art this summer, and how you can too!

1. Tell me about your organization. What is your mission? Who do you serve? What gets you excited to go to work every day?

Nido is a not-for-profit coworking space with an on-site Montessori preschool. We primarily serve families who are looking for a new option for work/life integration. Our members are folks who are looking to have space to work, be close to their children, and make connections in a supportive community.

There is power in seeing someone else succeed at creating a meaningful and happy life – it inspires other folks to make the decisions necessary to create the same thing in their lives.

2. Supporting artists by giving them a space for making art accessible to a wider audience is an important part of your business model. Why is this so close to your heart? In what ways do you support local artists?

My motivation for having art here comes down to creating a beautiful and inspiring environment.

In our classrooms, our teachers create prepared environments that allow our children to engage in creative and productive work/play.

In our coworking space, we try to do the same thing. Whether that’s having fresh coffee brewing when our members arrive, or making sure our space is full of bright, beautiful, meaningful art, it all contributes to making sure they feel taken care of and ready to dive into their own creative and productive work/play.

I hope, too, that our space can be supportive for local artists.

Because we have members coming into our space day after day, they see and engage with the art in a different way than seeing it just once during a gallery visit.

They are given the opportunity to get attached to the art over the duration of the artist’s show. It is my hope that this translates into more sales for the artists, more money staying local, and more art in people’s homes.

3. For readers who haven’t stepped inside Nido, can you paint a picture of what the interior looks like? What are some of the rooms like, and how are they used by your members?

We are lucky to have a beautiful space to work in every day. Our landlord, Jon Parker, had intended to use the space as an art gallery – then he met us and decided to let us rent the space instead because he wanted to support the mission of Nido (thank you, Jon!).

The space is full of light – floor to ceiling windows throughout the coworking space means we often don’t have to use the lighting during the day.

We’ve tried to maintain a minimal aesthetic while still being cozy. Right now, I’m sitting on a couch in one of the rooms with the best light!

We also have a conference room that folks use on a regular basis. Our shelves in that room are full of plants and books – and now, your art!

4. How do my paintings enhance the overall feel of Nido?

Your art has caused me to envision some of the spaces in new ways. This is especially true in the conference room – I don’t think we’ve ever had so many blues and pinks in that room, and it looks great! We are currently planning a redesign of our interior, so it is lovely to get new inspiration from how your art interacts with the space.

Overall, the color and sensuality of your work has the effect of making the space feel warmer and cozier. I’ve heard so many comments from our members  about how much they love having your paintings here.

5. What have some of your members said about my paintings since my installation? Is there a favorite? Which painting is your favorite, Tiff?

Oooo I have heard lots of favorites – I don’t know if there’s consensus on this one! Our Children’s House teacher’s favorite is “Dreamscape No. 4”, currently hanging in the break room.

My husband’s favorites is “You Are Enough” – and I love the placement right above one of our standing desks, which happens to be my favorite place to work. I’ve heard lots of fans of the use of mica in the paintings! (Who doesn’t love glitter, right?!)

My favorite? I’d have to go with the Bloom series, hanging in the conference room. I really have a thing for flowers.

6. Anything else you’d like to add about Nido, my artwork, or your role in the Durham community?

Thank you for being you and for bringing so much beauty into our space. The thing I love most about your art is how the movement, emotion, and intention is imparted through your medium.  Your work has energy in it, and it’s palpable. As someone who experiences the world in a very kinetic way, I appreciate that.

I also want to affirm how important it is to be creating art and bringing beauty into the world.

Art fills us up in a vital way – a way that’s absolutely necessary if we are all to continue pushing forward and fighting for a better future. We can’t do that if our souls are empty, so thank you, Courtney, for filling our souls!

Come kick back with me at my opening reception at Nido on July 20 for Third Friday Durham! I’ll have my paintings up until the end of August, including 22 new mini-paintings that are cute as a button! RSVP here!

Entrance is FREE, and I’ll have treats + wine for my guests.

I’ve got some fun activities in the works for this reception, including a fluid painting inspired cake by local baker extraordinaire Sonia Oakley!

THE DETAILS:

• Friday, July 20
• 6pm @ Nido Durham
• 902 Broad Street, Durham, NC 27705

The post Making Art Accessible | Nido Art Show in Durham appeared first on Courtney Potter Studio.

A few weeks ago, a 10-year-old asked me this question while we were working on a fluid painting exercise together at my workshop. We were both covered in paint, silly with the floaty feeling that comes from being so openly and joyfully absorbed in creating together.

I answered quickly and reflexively. “Not painting.”

Bella was surprised at my answer. She thought I would have told her a story about messing up a masterpiece.

But my biggest art fail is all the times I decided not to make art.

I’m actually really good at coming up with excuses not to paint or draw or make music. I’m too tired. Right now’s a bad time. I’m in a bad headspace. I need more time to let my idea marinate. I’m too hung over. I don’t have enough focus, time, skills, money, art supplies, inspiration, qualifications, etc. You name it, I’ve said it.

Sure, I’ve messed up plenty of paintings. I’ve spilled the “wrong” color on my canvas. I’ve overworked florals that I should have left alone because I doubted myself and didn’t know when to walk away. Heck, my cat even ran through a wet painting not once, but twice! But I don’t consider these accidents and missteps failures.

I see all the times I decided to paint as a huge victory, regardless of the outcome.

Because I made something from nothing. Because it required bravery. Since I did something positive with my energy instead of sitting on my butt. If I painted (or picked up my guitar, or snapped a picture with my iPhone), I still created something truly original. Even if it’s just a few loose magenta brushstrokes on cheap paper. Even if everyone else thinks my art sucks. And even if I think my art sucks.

Because in the end, it’s just paint.

If I hate what I’ve created, I can just gesso the shit outta that painting and start over. And the layers underneath the white gesso will serve as an interesting, textured foundation for the do-over.

This kind of open acceptance in my art practice – of saying yes to things both within and out of my control-  has transformed the way I live my life.

It’s helped me detach from outcomes I might otherwise have tried to control. I’ve learned to bend and flex and not take myself so seriously. It’s taught me to “woman up” and just do the damn thing.

Like having a vulnerable conversation with my partner even though I’m afraid of being rejected. Or saying “yes” to teaching a workshop even though I’ve never taught a room full of people before. Knowing I’ll awkwardly fumble my way through the unknown because that’s part of the deal when you breach the wilderness, But still knowing in my gut it will be worth it in the end because I’ll grow throughout the process. And maybe even have fun along the way.

What’s one action you can take this week to combat the negative voices in your head discouraging you from taking a risk?

Set a timer for fifteen minutes and do that one thing. Learn a new guitar chord. Call that friend you’ve lost touch with because of your busy schedule. Write a haiku. Put your unique mark on the world’s blank canvas. Life’s too short to hold back.

Looking for even more support and inspiration? Every last Tuesday of the month, join me for a night of saying “yes” to your creative urges in my Art + Yoga Embodied Fluidity workshop. I guarantee you’ll leave glowing: smiling from head to toe (and possibly covered in paint!).  You’ll feel proud of your creations, amazed at what you are capable of, and glad you said yes to your creative urges and took a risk.

You’ll pour paint, meditate over water bowls filled with turquoise ink, and jump and dance. Together we’ll reclaim that childlike boldness we’re all born with.  You do not need any art or yoga experience to participate in this workshop. Everyone is welcome!

The next Workshop Date is Tuesday, July 31 from 6-8pm! Register now, because there are only 6 spots left!

The Details:

• Every last Tuesday of the month.

• 6-8pm at The Studio—Old East Durham

• 2112 Angier Ave, Durham, NC 27703

• $50 per person

*The workshop fee covers all painting materials and refreshments. Yoga mats provided.

Breathe. Let go. Enjoy the flow of art + yoga.

Your Instructors for the July 31 Workshop

Courtney Potter is a self-taught abstract artist who believes in the universal power of creativity.

She began painting as a way to process her emotions after experiencing trauma. Opening herself up to access a deeper well of her creative power literally saved her life.

Potter has built her career around expressing herself through art and helping others cultivate and celebrate their unique voices. She believes painting is a powerful tool that anyone can access at any time to transform their pain into meaning.

Potter is a member of Artspace, Visual Art Exchange, and the Wedding Photojournalist Association and has exhibited her art along the East Coast. You can view her work at her solo exhibition at Hagersmith in Raleigh until the end of June.

Laura Nickerson  has taught yoga full-time since 2012.

In that time, she has created programs for military veterans, athletes, and teenagers. Laura has experience and expertise in anatomy, yoga for athletes, and yoga for trauma survivors. Her initial certification is through Sonic Yoga in New York City, and she has trained with David Emerson and Sage Rountree, as well as other teachers. In addition to public classes, Laura offers private yoga lessons, Thai Yoga Therapy, and Reiki.

Laura started yoga for the workout. At that time, she was unable to touch her toes and was much more interested in yoga party tricks than meditation or spirituality. Although she is now passionate about yoga philosophy and a dedicated anatomy geek, her most marked attribute as a teacher is the heart of a healer. Laura considers the yoga practice an act of love for self and world, and she brings that to her teaching.  All humans are welcome in class with Laura; this emphatically includes all races and genders.

Outside of her teaching and bodywork practices, Laura is a Boston Qualifying marathon runner, two-time Spartan Race World Championship–qualifier—and a recovering survivor of domestic violence.

The post My Biggest Art Fail | Get Off Your Butt and Create! appeared first on Courtney Potter Studio.