The Innsmouth Gaze: My Big Eye Deep One Drawing for Drawlloween!

 

Here's my latest for Mab Graves's #Drawlloween challenge! Today's prompt is #finfolk.

This prompt sparked so many ideas, but I settled on drawing my first-ever Lovecraft-inspired Deep One! Titled "The Innsmouth Gaze," she is a deep-sea denizen adorned with an array of tentacles. She's accompanied by two adorable, bumpy Tubby Snailfish (Careproctus colliculi chonkers) friends who couldn't resist her allure!

This 8"x10" traditional drawing is a mixed media study on 9"x12" toned tan paper. I already hope to translate this piece into a painting someday!

The original drawing is available for purchase! Please contact me directly for details if you're interested.

Thanks so much to @MabGraves for hosting this fun challenge!

Witchcraft in Waiting: My Daydreaming Toad & Spellbook Drawing for Drawlloween!

 

Here's my latest for Mab Graves's #Drawlloween challenge! Today's prompt is #toad.

This ambitious amphibian, with a powerful book of magic at his call, has "borrowed" Elphaba's hat and is clearly scheming away in a delightful daydream!

This 8"x10" traditional drawing is a mixed media study on 9"x12" toned tan paper. I'm already making great progress on the painting inspired by this drawing, but I decided not to rush the final piece. For now, I'm thrilled to share the original drawing with you!

The original drawing is available for purchase! Please contact me directly for details if you're interested.

Thanks so much to @MabGraves for hosting this fun challenge!

Witchcraft in Waiting: My Daydreaming Toad & Spellbook WIP for Drawlloween!

 

Here's my latest for Mab Graves's #Drawlloween challenge! Today's prompt is #spellbook.

Meet this ambitious amphibian who has "borrowed" Elphaba's hat and is clearly daydreaming instead of reading his book of spells! Some toads should definitely be studying...

This piece started as a toned drawing for the #toad prompt, but I loved the concept so much I decided to turn it into a painting! It was a perfect fit for today's prompt, too. I'm currently working on the underpainting of the hat and the toad, but the spellbook looks ready, so I wanted to share this Work in Progress today.

This 4"x6" traditional oil painting on paper will be shared framed when completed.

The original painting will be available for purchase! Please contact me directly for details if you're interested.

Thanks so much to @MabGraves for hosting this fun challenge!

Eyes of the Covenant: My Big Eye Vampire Drawing for Drawlloween!

 

Here's my latest for Mab Graves's #Drawlloween challenge! Today's prompt is #vampire.

I was inspired by Monica Bellucci's sultry portrayal as Dracula's Bride in Bram Stoker's Dracula. Titled "Eyes of the Covenant," this big-eye version focuses on the ocular, complete with a tiny, perfect drip of blood. Her beauty was the driving force behind the piece.

This 8"x10" traditional drawing is a mixed media study on 9"x12" toned gray paper.

The original drawing is available for purchase! Please contact me directly for details if you're interested.

Thanks so much to @MabGraves for hosting this fun challenge!

Onryō: My Big Eye Sadako Drawing for Drawlloween!

 

Here's my latest for Mab Graves's #Drawlloween challenge! Today's prompt is #yokai.

I was inspired by the terrifying spirit Sadako from The Ring for this piece. Titled "Onryō," my big-eye version has a haunting and chilling feel that I think captures the traditional Japanese vengeful spirit.

This 8"x10" traditional drawing is a mixed media study on 9"x12" toned black paper. I used a minimalistic approach to the lighting, which really enhances the elegance and spooky atmosphere of the art.

The original drawing is available for purchase! Please contact me directly for details if you're interested.

Thanks so much to @MabGraves for hosting this fun challenge!

The Gourdmother: My Big Eye Fae with a Pumpkin Hat Drawing for Drawlloween!

 

Here's my latest for Mab Graves's #Drawlloween challenge! Today's prompt is #pumpkin.

I had so much fun drawing this big-eye fae, who is crowned with a whimsical jack-o'-lantern! Titled "The Gourdmother," her eyes truly shine, capturing the spooky season's glow.

This 8"x10" traditional drawing is a mixed media study on 9"x12" toned black paper. I felt a little hesitant about starting this piece, but once I did, it became an absolute joy!

The original drawing is available for purchase! Please contact me directly for details if you're interested.

Thanks so much to @MabGraves for hosting this fun challenge!

Innocence and Instinct: My Big Eye Werewolf and Wolf Pup Drawing for Drawlloween!

 

Here's my latest for Mab Graves's #Drawlloween challenge! Today's prompt is #werewolf.

I chose to draw this charming pair: a big-eye wolf girl accompanied by her sweet, howling wolf pup friend. Titled "Innocence and Instinct," they capture a truly charming and gentle take on the werewolf theme.

This 8"x10" traditional drawing is a toned mixed media study on 9"x12" tan paper. I absolutely loved creating this piece!

The original drawing is available for purchase! Please contact me directly for details if you're interested.

Thanks so much to @MabGraves for hosting this fun challenge!

Sylvan Reverie: My Big Eye Forest Sprite Drawing for Drawlloween!

 

Here's my latest for Mab Graves's #Drawlloween challenge! Today's prompt is #forestsprite, and I'm sharing this big-eye dryad with elegant deer antlers and moths flittering around her.

Titled "Sylvan Reverie," this 5"x10" traditional drawing is a toned mixed media study on 9"x12" tan paper. I found a real sense of peacefulness creating her, and I hope to translate this piece into a painting someday!

The original drawing is available for purchase! Please contact me directly for details if you're interested.

Thanks so much to @MabGraves for hosting this fun challenge!

The Emerald Stare: My Big Eye Witch for Drawlloween!

 

"What a world, what a world!" Kicking off today's Mab Graves's #Drawlloween prompt: #witch!

I chose to draw a big-eye version of the so-called wicked witch of the West, inspired by Elphaba from Wicked. Titled "The Emerald Stare," she's complete with her characteristic hat and signature green hue.

This is an 8"x10" traditional drawing—a toned colored pencil study on 9"x12" tan paper. Drawing her was an absolute delight, and I hope to translate this piece into a painting someday!

The original drawing is available for purchase! Please contact me directly for details if you're interested.

Thanks @MabGraves for hosting!

Guardian of Thistles: My Familiar Original Drawing for Drawlloween!

 

Here's my latest piece for the Mab Graves's #Drawlloween challenge! The prompt for today is #yourfamiliar, and the moment I saw it, I knew exactly what I had to draw. Meet my familiar, the "Guardian of Thistles," a bunny with long ram horns and a truly quizzical expression.

This is an 8"x10" traditional drawing—a toned colored pencil study on 9"x12" grey paper. I absolutely loved creating my familiar and hope to translate this piece into a painting someday!

The original drawing is available for purchase! Please contact me directly for details if you're interested.

Thanks @MabGraves for hosting!

October is here! Original big eye spooky gothic femme painting for Drawlloween...

 

The spooky season has officially begun, and I'm kicking off my first piece for Mab Graves's #Drawlloween challenge! Today's prompt is #spooky, and my original painting, "Tear Stained Gaze," felt like the perfect fit.

This 8"x10" acrylic on canvas is a traditional big-eye gothic femme piece. I had so much fun creating her, and I think she captures the spooky theme perfectly!

The original painting is available for purchase! Please contact me directly if you're interested in details.

Happy National Dog Day!

 

This fluffy red Chow Chow puppy is here to celebrate National Dog Day with you!

Dogs give us so much, and this original painting, titled "Hóngsè de gǒu," was donated to help pets in need. My love for animals is why they are a regular subject in my art, and it feels extra special to celebrate them today.

Mab's Drawlloween Club: Let the Spooky Season Begin!

 

It might be early, but I'm absolutely mad for Halloween! I'm thrilled that Mab Graves has released her annual Drawlloween prompt list in advance. Since my traditional art process is very slow, I truly appreciate the heads-up.

While I won't be able to tackle every single prompt, I'm excited to create and share as much art as I can throughout the challenge. I've included the prompt list in this post in case you'd like to draw along!

CatCon 2025: My Favorite Artists & Highlights!

 

I absolutely love CatCon! It's the perfect place for amazing artists and a sea of adorable kitty cosplayers.

My first stop is always the booth of one of my all-time favorite artists, Jasmine Becket-Griffith. I make a beeline there every time (as direct as my directionally-challenged self can manage!). She had a ton of gorgeous items this year, including some darling event-exclusive pins. I got a photo of her charming helpers, Jenn and Logan, but somehow missed getting one with Jasmine herself. I can't recommend a Jasmine signing enough—she's incredibly kind and shares personal insights into her art with every meeting. It's also a great delight to connect with some of her fellow fans there.

I so love visiting Kurtis Rykovich's booth, which is always filled with beautifully framed prints that shine with elegance. Additionally, he's so sweet and charming.

And no CatCon is complete without stopping by the Emily the Strange booth! It’s a unique experience with a fun mix of art and merchandise.

Seeing these artists and how their work shines in person is what makes CatCon one of my favorite events of the year!

Original Oil Painting: "Gaze of Majesty"

 

Behold the power of "Gaze of Majesty"! This original oil painting captures the intense, direct stare of a magnificent tiger, resting serenely on its paws. Initially inspired by the Year of the Tiger, it made a special appearance for International Tiger Day.

Painted with rich oils on a cradled wood panel, this 10"x8" piece offers incredible depth. It's truly a unique addition for any collector passionate about wildlife art or seeking a captivating statement piece.

Ready to bring this powerful presence into your collection? Contact me for details!

Gently Cleaning a WIP (work in progress) Mermaid Painting

I pulled out a work-in-progress mermaid painting I had tucked away, ready to dive back in, but lo and behold, it had acquired a layer of dirt!

While acrylics are sturdy enough for a soft cloth and water, this was my first time facing grime on a water-soluble oil painting. Normally, I'd know what to do, but for this, I turned to Gemini for advice.

Gemini suggested Picture CleanGel. I applied the product by spraying it onto cotton balls and gently rubbing the surface. Then, I followed up by softly wiping the painting with distilled water on fresh cotton balls.

Voila! The painting is clean and prepped for its next stage! It's such a relief to have it ready.

Presenting Athena: A Completed German Shepherd Original Painting!

 

I'm delighted to unveil the completed view of Athena, a truly beautiful German Shepherd. Bringing this traditional pet portrait to life was an absolute joy!

While this original painting is already spoken for, I still wanted to share her finished form with you. She's painted using duo oils on an 8"x10" panel.

Meet Athena: German Shepherd Underpainting WIP Work in Progress

 

I'm happy to share this work-in-progress view of Athena, a beautiful German Shepherd. This is the underpainting stage of my traditional pet portrait.

Although this original is already spoken for, I wanted to share a glimpse into the process. The painting is created using duo oils on an 8"x10" panel.

Huntington Gardens Adventure: A Focus on Nature's Beauty

 I recently visited the Huntington Gardens, and the beauty I found there truly moved me. I initially aimed to share my top ten favorite nature photographs from that trip, but as I compiled them, I felt compelled to share eleven!

Art is a powerful force that continuously drives me to seek beauty, and sometimes, the raw power and intricate detail of nature becomes my inspiration. In this collection of garden-centric photographs, I wanted to capture and share that very spark. I hope you feel it too!

Original Art: "Corazón Onírico" Big Eye Girl with a Unicorn Toned Drawing

 ✨ EDIT: SOLD, Thanks so much! ✨

I'm so excited to share this original traditional toned drawing, "Corazón Onírico" (Dreamy Heart). Created with colored pencils on beautiful toned paper, this one-of-a-kind piece captures a magical moment between a sweet, big-eyed Latina girl and her unicorn. She holds him close, a silent protector of a little bit of magic.

This original fine art piece measures 8"x10" and is a unique addition to any collection. I'm also planning to develop this concept into a future painting!

If you're interested in owning this piece of original art, please contact me, I'm happy to answer any questions you have about the piece!

✨ Honoring Freedom & Legacy this Juneteenth! ✨

 

This Juneteenth, I'm honored to share "Guiding Star," my original "big eye" painting of Harriet Tubman.

After varnishing this piece, I took a moment to truly see her, unconstrained by a frame. It felt fitting to share this image today as we commemorate Juneteenth, a day of profound significance for freedom and reflection.

This original painting is crafted with duo oils on a wood panel and measures approximately 8"x10".

Amigurumi Crochet Totoro Doll Made by my Mother for Me!

 

My mother is an artist, but she creates with yarn instead of paints.  She knows I love Totoro and made this amazing doll for me.  I am so moved by her sweet and beautiful gift.  I wanted to share this with you...

Edit: This doll is Not for Sale. Sorry and thanks for the interest.

A Framing Option for my Original Big Eye Mermaid Painting...

 

When I started Gaze of the Deep, I thought I was going to provide the frame pictured as an option.  Alex doesn't like it though.  I'm trying to decide.  What do you think?

Do you think the frame would be good for this painting as is (although it does have some vintage charm chips)?  Would it be better if Alex painted it solid black or solid gold?  Does it not work for this painting but possibly might for another painting?  Or did I make a mistake in this purchase and should I just donate it to someone who might use it?

I can't make up my mind about it.  The painting is on canvas, so it doesn't need a frame, I can just wire it, but sometimes I like to provide a framing option...  What do you think?

Monsterpalooza! Focus on Artists Jasmine Becket Griffith and David Van Gough and Kurtis Rykovich

 

I had the wonderful honor of seeing some incredible artists at Monsterpalooza.

Jasmine Becket Griffith and David Van Gough shared a booth and some truly fantastic art.  They were incredibly sweet and signed not only what I purchased but a whole backpack of items I brought from home.  They were amazing and Jenn as always was a delight.

As a side note, I've been sorting my horded art prints and I have some multiples that they were oh so very kind enough to sign for me, so there will be some giveaways pending on the Jasmine Boards!

I also had the privilege of meeting the artist Kurtis Rykovich for the first time, I love his art and in person he is absolutely charming.

There was so much more to see, the cosplaying alone was incredible, but I was so wiped from the heat of the entry line that I didn't see much.  I was able to see the artists I wanted to see the most though and they were so kind.

Monsterpalooza will be running until Sunday at the Pasadena Convention Center.  I could only go the one day, but if you have the opportunity, I encourage you to go!