KATIE ROSE NORMAN

 @PAPERROSEDESIGNS PRINTS AVAILABLE AT PAPERROSEDESIGNS.COM

I grew up in Abita Springs, LA, a small town famous for its healing waters. The natural springs and gently winding river inspired my own artistic flow and instilled a deep love of nature and community. I learned to paint with oils and acrylics on canvas, spending weeks in critical deliberation over every brush stroke. Learning to work with watercolors was a true awakening for me. I spent many years coloring inside the lines, sticking to the plan and palette, but now I embrace the unknown, trust my instincts and take more chances.

I continue to find inspiration working with oils and acrylics on canvas, wood and walls but watercolor invites a lighter, more whimsical stroke. The spontaneity of flowing water dismantles my inherent desire to control every detail, and encourages me to forget expectations and delight in the magic that flows between bristles, pigment and water. It's a love story unfolding on the paper: rich color dancing with divine elements. I've learned that with patience and an open heart, the masterpiece will reveal itself. It always does.

Since launching Paper Rose Designs in 2011, I have painted hundreds of watercolor portraits of brides, puppies, families, homes, hotels, logos and landscapes. Bringing people together is what matters most to me and art is how I do it.