Artist Spotlight
Hello my artist family!
It’s Jen here, and I’m so happy to introduce you to a wonderful artist from our community — Ellen Gerst, joining us from beautiful Paradise Valley, Arizona. Ellen’s story is one of those that gently grabs your heart and reminds you just how powerful creativity can be, especially when life nudges us to find new ways to heal and express ourselves.
Ellen is a grief and relationship coach and the author of 30 self-help books (yes… thirty — I had to pause and blink twice). But when the pandemic shifted the rhythm of everyday life, she found herself craving a new creative outlet. Instead of painting pictures with words, she began painting with color — using art to express feelings and soothe her soul in a whole new way.
Art wasn’t entirely new territory for Ellen. Over the years, she had dabbled in different mediums, including running a custom card company many years ago. Then one day, she stumbled across yours truly on Facebook. She started with holiday tutorials, moved on to cards, then the First Five, and eventually joined the club. Today, Ellen is developing a beautiful, evolving style using a mix of brushes and palette knives while building a portfolio she hopes to exhibit in 2026. And let me just say, I love an artist with a vision and a timeline.
When it comes to inspiration, Ellen draws from a rich mix of sources. Nature plays a big role, as do heartfelt emotions — both sadness and joy. One of my favorite inspirations she shared is creating art that delights her grandchildren and reflects what they’re excited about right now. That kind of love and intention always shows up on the canvas.
Here’s the painting Ellen chose to share with us:
This piece captures exactly what Ellen described — a quiet moment of solitude and a gentle break from the constant noise of the world. When I look at it, I can almost feel everything slow down. It’s calm, reflective, and deeply grounding — the kind of painting that invites you to breathe a little deeper.
Ellen shared that what she loves most about DabblePaints is their thick, creamy texture and how easily they glide across canvas or paper. She also appreciates their affordability and the thoughtfully curated color lineup. While other brands may tempt artists with endless exotic shades, Ellen loves knowing she has everything she needs to blend, mix, and create without overwhelm. I couldn’t agree more.
When it comes to what she enjoys most about painting, Ellen said it best: painting allows her to set aside the concerns of the day and become fully immersed in the act of creation. This particular piece represents a peaceful refuge — and she shared that painting itself offers her that same sense of quiet and restoration.
Her advice for artists just starting out is honest, practical, and incredibly freeing. Don’t get discouraged if you’re not happy with your early results. Ellen has painted over some canvases three or four times, and she reminds us that this is one of the great gifts of acrylics — if you don’t like something, you can simply paint over it. She also suggests taking photos throughout the painting process so you can learn from each stage.
Sometimes the magic is in noticing where things started to shift, so the next painting can be even better.
Ellen, thank you for sharing your story, your art, and your heart with us. Your journey is a beautiful reminder that creativity can meet us exactly where we are and gently guide us forward. I know so many artists in this community will feel encouraged by your words and inspired by your work.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
XO,
Jen
Hello my artist family!
It’s Jen here, and today I get the absolute joy of introducing you to Barb Dieterle from Loveland, Colorado—an artist whose story is such a beautiful reminder that creativity keeps evolving right along with us. And honestly, I just love how her journey unfolds.
Barb’s path with art began nearly three decades ago with toll painting classes. Twenty-eight years ago she was learning brush strokes, highlights, and shading—those foundational skills that quietly build confidence over time. Toll painting gave her a strong base, but like so many artists, Barb felt that familiar nudge that whispers, “What else is possible?”
That curiosity led her to explore new styles, and before long she found herself completely drawn to textured painting while scrolling Pinterest. (Let’s be honest—Pinterest has a very persuasive way of doing that. One minute you’re pinning color palettes, the next minute you’re rethinking your entire creative life.) That exploration eventually led her to Let’s Dabble, and the rest is texture-filled history.
When it comes to inspiration, Barb is fueled by her love of creating itself. She’s always enjoyed making things and giving homemade gifts, and color plays a huge role in what lights her up. Pinterest became her visual playground—she pinned everything she loved, and those pins slowly turned into creative direction. I always say inspiration leaves breadcrumbs, and Barb followed them beautifully.
Now let’s talk paint for a moment. When I asked Barb what she loves about DabblePaints, her answer made me smile from ear to ear:
“Jen and Matt really nailed it with their beautiful smooth and creamy paints. Let’s Dabble paints work perfectly for palette knife painting.”
Music to my artist heart, because palette knife painting should feel smooth, joyful, and forgiving—not like you’re wrestling your supplies.
What Barb enjoys most about painting is something so simple and so powerful: the transformation. She loves starting with a blank white canvas and ending with something she made. That moment of stepping back, seeing the finished piece, and realizing, “I created this,” fills her with happiness and pride. And truly, that feeling never gets old.
Here’s the piece Barb chose to share—a painting that represents that exact moment of joy and accomplishment:
If you’ve ever stood in front of your own finished painting and felt that quiet little yes in your chest, then you know exactly what Barb is talking about. That’s the magic.
When asked what advice she’d give someone just starting to paint, Barb kept it refreshingly real:
“Just start! It’s tempting to procrastinate. The sooner you get started, the sooner you’ll realize how fun it is to paint and create. It makes your heart happy!”
Isn’t that the truth? Starting is the hardest part—and also the doorway to all the joy waiting on the other side.
Barb, thank you for sharing your story and your heart with us. Your journey is such a beautiful reminder that it’s never about how you start—it’s about staying curious, staying creative, and letting yourself grow. You are an inspiration to this artist family.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world. 💖
XO,
Jen
Hello my artist family!
It’s Jen here, and I am absolutely thrilled to introduce you to a wonderful aspiring professional artist (and yes, Debora, I love that title), Debora Boudreau from Sandy, Oregon.
Debora’s art journey is one of those beautiful, full-circle stories that reminds me exactly why creativity lives so deeply in us. Her grandmother used to say Debora was born scribbling on walls, and now she’s watching her own two-year-old granddaughter do the same thing—floors, walls, tables, and herself included. Clearly, the artistic gene runs strong in this family.
Art showed up early for Debora. At just 18, she was accepted into an art school in Florida. Life, however, had other plans, and instead she joined the Marine Corps. Even then, creativity found its way into her life in small but meaningful ways. Over the years she kept returning to art when she could, including a self-portrait she created at only 16.
Then came a long and difficult pause. A neck injury forced Debora to put away her brushes and ink pens for more than 30 years. She found other outlets and kept moving forward until surgery changed everything. After a long recovery, she was sitting in her living room when she realized she was no longer trembling. The very first thing she did was order art supplies online. That moment still gives me chills.
That was 11 years ago, and she has never looked back.
Debora describes painting as her happy place, and you can feel that joy in every word she shares. She is self-taught, learning through books, YouTube, studying other artists, and following her curiosity wherever it leads. Now retired for the last two years, she paints as much as she wants. Her fingers are always stained, and she jokes that she doesn’t own anything without paint on it anymore. Honestly, that sounds like a life well lived.
She took her First Five class with me about four years ago, explored other classes, and when she discovered Let’s Dabble, she jumped in wholeheartedly. Looking back at her older work now, she laughs at how proud she once was of pieces she’s ready to redo. That right there is growth, my friends.
When it comes to inspiration, Debora lights up talking about thick, colorful mountains, the beach, landscapes, and flowers. She loves impasto and that delicious balance of controlled (or not so controlled) chaos coming together. Her goal is simple and powerful: she wants her paintings to inspire peace, happiness, and joy.
The painting Debora chose to share is especially meaningful. She lived in Alaska for 20 years, and this rugged mountain scene reminds her of the view from her old home, right before the leaves fall and winter takes hold. You can feel that moment of stillness and strength, as if the landscape is taking one deep breath before the snow arrives.
When Debora talks about DabblePaints, I find myself nodding along the entire time. She says they allow the art to come through you, not from you. She loves how every artist’s work looks different, how encouraging and patient the community is, and of course, the paint itself—thick, smooth, buttery, and perfectly layered. She loves that once it dries, you can layer again as thick or thin as you want, and that these paints have helped her see just how far she can go as she continues learning.
And finally, her advice for anyone just starting out is pure Debora—joyful, practical, and honest. Just do it. Let painting be your happy place, your zen. Practice makes you better. Use lots of paint and tools, protect your floors, don’t worry about the mess, and most importantly, try not to confuse your coffee mug with your paint mug. Trust me, that advice comes from experience.
Debora, thank you for sharing your incredible journey, your resilience, and your joy with our artist family. Your story is living proof that creativity waits patiently for us, and when we return to it, it welcomes us home.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
XO,
Jen
December 18, 2025 Artist Spotlight: Denielle Baldwin
Hello my artist family!
Today I get to introduce you to a truly special soul in our community — Denielle Baldwin from Anchorage, Alaska. Denielle’s story is one of courage, healing, and rediscovering creativity when it mattered most, and I’m deeply honored to share it with you.
Denielle has always been drawn to art and creativity, but like so many of us, fear had a way of talking louder than curiosity. Growing up, she was told she was “smart” and should go into business. Trusting that advice, she followed that path instead. She even tried taking art classes as an adult, but struggled, felt defeated, and eventually stepped away from painting altogether.
That is, until she found me, Matt, and Let’s Dabble.
And I have to say — sometimes art waits patiently for us. It doesn’t disappear. It just waits for the right moment, when we finally give ourselves permission to begin again.
Denielle lives in Alaska, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, and that environment absolutely inspires her. But what truly pulls her to the canvas are her emotions, passions, and imagination. That inner landscape is just as powerful as the one outside her window, and painting gives it space to exist freely.
When I asked what she loves about DabblePaints, her answer made me smile from ear to ear:
“I reach for DabblePaints because they’re like a favorite pen, pair of jeans, morning coffee or good friend — tried and true and they give you confidence to create beauty in your world.”
Honestly, if paints could have a personality, that description would be exactly it. Comfortable, reliable, and quietly cheering you on while you create.
The painting Denielle chose to share holds deep meaning. Over the past six years, she has experienced profound loss — losing her dad and husband just three months apart, followed by her aunt, best friend, and oldest sister, all unexpectedly. As if that wasn’t enough, a house fire displaced her and her daughter for over two and a half years, moving between hotels and rentals while navigating grief, stress, insurance issues, and endless rebuilding.
Through all of it, painting became her anchor.
She shared that painting kept her sane and helped her process grief and overwhelming emotions. Hearing that is a powerful reminder of why art matters so much. It doesn’t erase pain, but it gives us a place to hold it — and sometimes, that’s exactly what we need to keep moving forward.
When asked what advice she would give someone just starting to paint, Denielle shared this:
“Just try. Dive in and trust the process and Jen as your teacher. I bought the supplies then stared at them for three months because I was too afraid to try. Jen walks you through each step in every single painting. You’re not alone.”
And she’s absolutely right. No one creates in isolation here. This community exists to support, encourage, and lift each other through every brave first step and every messy middle.
Denielle, thank you for sharing your story, your resilience, and your art with us. Your journey is a beautiful reminder that creativity can bring light back into even the darkest seasons. You inspire more artists than you know.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
XO,
Jen
December 11, 2025 Artist Spotlight: JanMarie Tolman
Tell us a little about your journey with art.
Throughout my adult life I’ve pursued, for a time, all types of creative expression - needlework, quilting, pottery, stained glass, even theater acting (which I still do). But any painting I tried failed. I just “didn’t have the talent” for it.
Then, about 4 years ago, I was in a very low place. My husband had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, we made a major move to be near our kids, the new house needed a lot of work & my youngest daughter passed away. God carried me through all the turmoil but I needed something positive in my life. I needed something just for me.
That’s when Jennifer Vranes popped up on Facebook & said anyone could paint. What a gift! She was right! Though I don’t paint every day, I am a lifetime Dabbler, I love retreats & the entire Dabble family. I’ve learned so, so much - And, I’ve learned to say “I am an artist.”
What inspires your creativity the most?
Nature. Oh, & clouds! I must have hundreds of photos of clouds “for future reference.”
What do you love about Dabble Paints?
They are ultra smooth and vibrant. The difference between Dabble Paints & other top brands is like comparing the purest, most perfect, homemade frosting in the world to a can of ready made frosting off the shelf.
What do you enjoy most about painting?
Tell us about the painting you uploaded—why did you choose to share this one?
I have images in my head tied to feelings and events that I’ve never been able to share. Painting lets me do that.
I chose this painting of an HC-130, the plane my brother-in-law flew as a special ops pilot (it was a gift for him), but my dad also flew C-130’s as a career AF pilot. I loved flying with my dad. He would say, “Just look at those clouds, Jan!” When he had dementia, he didn’t remember being a pilot, or who I was, but every day I saw him he’d look outside & say, “Just look at those clouds!”
What advice would you give someone just starting to paint?
Don’t overthink it! Just stay loose and keep going. Paint what makes you happy.
December 4, 2025 Artist Spotlight: Gail Heneghan
Hello my artist family!
It’s Jen here, and today I get to introduce you to an artist whose story truly warmed my heart — Gail Heneghan from Palatine, Illinois.
Gail’s Journey Into Art
Gail shared that creating art has always been a meaningful part of her life. As a young girl, she experimented with all kinds of media wherever she could find the space and supplies. Isn’t it amazing how those early creative sparks stay with us, even when life pulls us in a dozen different directions?
As an adult, Gail devoted her time to raising her family and building her university career, letting art take a quieter seat in the background. But now that she’s newly retired and embracing a more relaxed pace of life, she finally has the time to follow those creative “urges” that have been waiting patiently for their moment. I love that visual — creativity tapping her on the shoulder saying, “Okay, Gail… your turn again.”
What Inspires Her Nature.
The simplicity, the beauty, the calm of the outdoors is what fuels her imagination and keeps her coming back to the canvas.
What She Loves About DabblePaints™
Gail told me how much she appreciates the consistency of the paint and how easily it helps her create those textured effects she loves so much. She also mentioned how thrilled she is with the variety of colors in the line. And yes, I absolutely did a tiny happy dance when I read that. If anyone saw it… no they didn’t.
The Joy of Painting
One of my favorite things Gail shared is that she’s proudly known as the “Painting Nana.” How adorable is that? Not only does painting satisfy her own creative urges, but it also gives her a way to introduce her grandchildren to the joy of making art. That’s the kind of generational inspiration that makes my heart swell.
The piece she submitted reflects exactly that: her love of creating and the joy she feels when sharing that experience with the little artists in her life.
Her Advice for Beginners
Gail’s message is simple, clear, and absolutely spot-on:
“Paint every day, even if only for an hour.”
Building that rhythm is where confidence grows and your artistic voice begins to bloom.
Gail, thank you for sharing your story with us. Your dedication to creativity, your warmth, and your commitment to passing the joy of art to the next generation make you such a gift to this community.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
XO,
Jen
November 27, 2025 Artist Spotlight: Robin DeGroff
Hello my artist family!
It’s Jen here, and today I have the absolute joy of introducing you to someone who has been with me since nearly the beginning of this whole wild, wonderful journey — the incredibly dedicated and heartfelt Robin DeGroff from Florence, Kentucky.
I can’t wait for you to read her story. It’s one of those journeys that quietly unfolds over a lifetime, and before you know it, you’re sitting there thinking, Of course she became the artist she is today.
Robin’s Artistic Journey
Robin fell in love with art as a child, continued studying it in high school, and even majored in art in college. The funny twist? She never actually took painting classes back then. Life carried her in a different direction — teaching first grade and kindergarten — where she spent her days encouraging little ones to explore their creativity.
After she retired, though, her own creativity came calling again. She began attending quick two-hour painting classes at her local library, then joined a painting group at the senior center. And then came COVID — a strange, difficult season for so many of us — but also the moment she stumbled across my webinar.
That’s when Robin discovered textured painting, and she was in. She became one of the earliest people in our community, a lifetime Let’s Dabble member, and someone who has been with me through reunions, retreats, and so much growth. Truly, she’s been part of the heartbeat of this artist family from the beginning.
Over time, she has used the techniques she’s learned to paint from her own photos and from photographers she admires. She has displayed her work in small galleries, sold pieces, and continues to share her love of God’s creation through her art. And honestly? When she told me her teacher encouraged her talent early on, I thought: that teacher deserves a big gold star.
What Inspires Robin
Robin is deeply inspired by beautiful landscapes — the kind that make you pause, breathe, and really take in the world around you. It’s easy to see that this love of creation is woven right into her work.
Artwork Showcase: “Autumn Splendor”
Robin chose to share her latest painting, Autumn Splendor, inspired by one of my own projects. As soon as she saw me paint it, she knew she wanted to bring her version to life too.
She especially loves painting water and reflections, and this piece is full of both. The glowing fall colors, the calm surface of the water, the mirror-like reflections — it all comes together in such a peaceful, grounded way. When I looked at it the first time, I actually leaned closer to my screen like I might catch my own reflection in that water. That’s how real it feels.
She also shared a second photo of herself at a craft fair, surrounded by her creations — palette knife hearts, small paintings, magnets, mugs, and hand-painted cards. Her booth looks like the kind of place where you stop “just to browse” and walk away with arms full of treasures.
What She Loves About DabblePaints™
Robin loves texture — and I mean loves it. She told me that DabblePaints™ are creamy, blend beautifully, and make it easy to create the kind of textured surfaces she enjoys most. Hearing this from someone who’s been with me since the early days means more than I can say.
What She Enjoys Most About Painting
Painting, for Robin, is both creative expression and meditation. She gets so absorbed in the process that she sometimes forgets to eat — which, let’s be honest, might be the most relatable artist moment of all time. She uses a mix of brushes and palette knives now, choosing whatever technique feels right for the painting.
Robin’s Advice for Beginners
Her advice is full of the kind of gentle wisdom I wish every new painter could hear:
“When you are first starting to paint give yourself some grace. Everyone needs practice when doing something new. Also the key ideas I always share with others when they are doing a landscape is top to bottom, back to front, cool in back and warmer in front. Just enjoy the process of placing paint on canvas.”
Simple. Encouraging. Honest. Exactly what a beginner needs.
Robin, thank you for sharing your journey, your artwork, and so much of your heart with us. You continue to inspire this community with your dedication, your faith, your creativity, and your willingness to grow. We are so grateful to have you in our artist family.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
XO,
Jen
November 20,2025 Artist Spotlight: Patty Hochheiser
Today I get the joy of introducing you to an artist whose journey absolutely warmed my heart — the wonderful Patty Hochheiser. Patty is a painter who reminds us that creativity doesn’t have a timeline and that even when life slows us down, art has a way of gently calling us back.
Patty has always felt drawn to painting, but like many of us, life kept nudging her attention elsewhere. Then in mid-2020, she took a brave step and started taking classes at a local studio. That decision opened a door she had been wanting to walk through for years.
When she eventually found Let’s Dabble, everything shifted. Her skills grew, her confidence grew, and her art began to flourish in ways she didn’t expect.
Even though a disability limits how often and how long she can paint, Patty has created around 30 paintings — and more than a dozen have already sold. I have to say, that’s what I call quiet determination making a very loud statement.
Honestly, if her paintings had personalities, I imagine them proudly standing there saying, “Quality over quantity, thank you very much.”
For Patty, the heart of her creativity is simple and powerful: peace of mind. Painting offers her a calmer headspace, a place where the world slows just enough for beauty to slip through.
Patty chose to share a piece that marks a personal milestone — her very first diptych. And I love that so much. A diptych feels like two canvases working in harmony, like they’re whispering to each other across that small divide.
I can practically imagine the texture she built up with her palette knives and molding paste. Knowing how she paints, the two panels probably feel like they belong together — a paired moment of tranquility captured in color.
And I have to admit, I smiled thinking of her stepping back from her easel and saying, “Well, look at that. I did it.” A first diptych is such a special achievement.
Patty told me she loves the thickness of the paint and how beautifully it works with palette knives and molding paste. As a texture lover myself, I couldn’t agree more. When someone says “thick paint,” my heart does a little dance.
For Patty, painting is all about the tranquility — that calming, grounding feeling that comes only from creating. It’s that quiet exhale we all know so well, when the world melts away and it’s just you and the canvas.
Her advice is heartfelt and so true:
“Find a great instructor like Jennifer Vranes at Let’s Dabble. It makes a big difference learning from a professional artist especially one like her.”
Patty, you’re too kind — but I completely agree that having the right guidance can change everything for a new artist.
Thank you for sharing your story, your art, and your heart with us. Your journey is such an encouragement to our artist family, and your resilience and creativity shine through every piece you make.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
XO,
Jen
November 13,2025 Artist Spotlight: Brenda DeJesus
Hello my artist family!
It’s Jen here, and today I’m so excited to introduce you to someone who brings an extra dose of joy, energy, and enthusiasm to our DabblePaints™ community — the fabulous Brenda DeJesus.
Brenda’s creative journey actually began in the world of ceramics — she spent years shaping beauty with her hands long before ever picking up a paintbrush. But a few years back, she stumbled upon one of my Facebook videos (hi, Brenda!), and something inside her said, “Hmm… I think I might give this a go.” And, as she so perfectly put it, “Am I ever GLAD I DID!”
I just love that kind of bravery — the kind that whispers “why not?” and ends up opening a whole new world of color and texture. Honestly, that “why not” moment is where all the best adventures begin, isn’t it?
What inspires Brenda most
This one completely melted my heart — she said, “Jen inspires me. Every time I see her, I WANT to paint!”
Cue me blushing like a tube of magenta. But truly, the feeling is mutual. Seeing Brenda’s excitement, growth, and passion reminds me why I do what I do. Inspiration flows both ways in this artist family.
What she loves about DabblePaints™
Brenda’s words made me laugh out loud — and nod in agreement:
“Oh my goodness!! They are SOOOOOOO CREAMY!!! I can’t believe the difference! I have a few jars left of the old paints, and OH BOY! I hate using them… so I use them in the backgrounds. I save the Dabble Paints for the foregrounds and details!”
Now that’s what I call prioritizing the good stuff! I’m so glad you can feel the difference, Brenda — that creamy, buttery texture is exactly what I dreamed of creating.
What she enjoys most about painting
Brenda says she usually loves whatever her latest piece is (relatable, right?). The painting she shared is one she just finished — and she chose it because it uses almost all of our favorite DabblePaints™ colors. I can practically see the joy in every swipe of her palette knife.
Brenda’s words are gold, so I’ll let her speak for herself:
“OH GOSH!! Just hang in there!!! It gets easier, and at first it can seem overwhelming, but honestly, you will AMAZE yourself!!! Just look at the videos from the retreats — everyone is painting the same picture, but they ALL look different!! Somewhere along the line, YOUR style will show through!!”
I couldn’t have said it better myself. She even quoted me (which made me grin ear to ear):
“Jen says, ‘If you can ice a cake, you can paint with a palette knife!’ I didn’t believe her, until I actually started painting! I AMAZED MYSELF!!!!”
And that right there is what it’s all about — discovering that joy, that confidence, and realizing that you can create something beautiful with your own two hands.
Brenda, thank you for sharing your light, your story, and your contagious excitement with us. You remind us all that it’s never too late to try something new — and to amaze yourself in the process.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
XO,
Jen
November 6, 2025 Artist Spotlight: Charlotte Hines
Hello my Dabble family!
It’s Jen here, and I am so excited for you to meet someone whose creative heart and resilience absolutely inspire me — the wonderful Charlotte Hines.
Charlotte’s story begins like so many of ours — with a love for creating that just couldn’t stay quiet, no matter what life threw her way. Back in 2020, when the world slowed down and everything felt uncertain, Charlotte found herself at a crossroads. A retired computer illustrator and multimedia designer, she had been pouring her creativity into crafting backdrops and props at her local Alabama theater. But when the pandemic shut everything down, Charlotte — like so many artists — found herself yearning for a new way to express her creativity.
That’s when fate (and a well-timed Facebook ad) stepped in. Charlotte stumbled upon one of my “Let’s Dabble” videos and something inside her just clicked. She’d always dreamed of painting landscapes but felt held back by fear — that little voice that says, “You can’t start now.” I think we’ve all heard that one, haven’t we?
But Charlotte decided to take the leap anyway. She joined the First Five Program and—get this—transformed her formal dining room into her very own studio. I love that so much. Honestly, who needs a fancy dining table when you can have a sea of color, brushes, and DabblePaints spread everywhere?
Through Let’s Dabble, Charlotte found her rhythm and started painting every day. Her years of precision and detail as a technical illustrator gave way to something looser, bolder, and more expressive. Then, just as her passion was soaring, she faced an unexpected challenge — tremors in her hands and arms. But instead of letting that stop her, Charlotte did something truly extraordinary: with the encouragement of another Dabble family member, she turned those tremors into part of her signature style. That’s pure artist alchemy — turning struggle into beauty.
What inspires Charlotte most
These days, she’s surrounded by the breathtaking desert landscapes of southern Utah — red rocks, lava fields, slot canyons, and skies that shift with the seasons. She says she’s endlessly inspired by how the colors transform — vibrant during monsoon season and muted but magical during the dry months. You can practically feel that energy pulsing through her work.
Here’s one of Charlotte’s recent pieces,“Pumpkin Patch”
When I first saw it, I could almost smell the crisp autumn air and hear the crunch of leaves underfoot. Those warm oranges and glowing blues? Perfection. You can tell this piece represents her growth as an artist — it’s joyful, confident, and full of life.
What she loves about DabblePaints™
Charlotte absolutely glows when she talks about the paints:
“The consistency, vibrant colors, rich opaqueness, and radiant shine are truly exceptional… but what truly sets them apart is the ingenious packaging! The effortless non-stick lids and bottles are a game-changer — reducing waste and making it a sheer delight for retirees like me to paint frequently without breaking the bank.”
Charlotte, I have to say — hearing that makes my heart so happy. Matt and I spent months perfecting those bottles, so knowing they make your painting sessions smoother is music to my ears.
What she enjoys most about painting
Charlotte told me she’s continually growing with each class and solo session — and that “Pumpkin Patch” really captures her evolving color palette and artistic confidence. I love how she said it fills her with joy and confidence every time she scoops up paint with her palette knife — that’s the magic moment we all chase, isn’t it?
Her advice for the beginners
“Do it. Take that first step to paint with Let’s Dabble; your creative knowledge and skills will expand to new heights, and your fear will dwindle to nothing.”
Simple, powerful, and absolutely true.
Charlotte, thank you for sharing your story, your perseverance, and your stunning art with our DabblePaints™ community. You’re living proof that creativity never retires — it just finds new canvases to dance on.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
XO,
Jen
Oct 30, 2025 Artist Spotlight: Colette Lee
Hello my Dabble family!
It’s Jen here, and I cannot wait for you to meet today’s featured artist — the wonderfully creative and endlessly inspiring Colette Lee.
Colette has been an artist her whole life. Her creative journey began at just three years old when her mom let her start sewing right alongside her. (Can we pause to appreciate that level of trust? I was barely allowed near the glue stick at that age!) That early love of sewing blossomed into a full-fledged career later in life, proving that creativity really does weave its way into every corner of who we are.
All through school, Colette was “the art person” — the one everyone called on when banners or class projects needed a special touch. Eventually, she brought her artistic spark into the classroom, teaching art to K–8 students in a small Catholic school for ten years. “To teach is to learn,” she says — and isn’t that the truth?
Beyond the classroom, Colette’s creativity spills over into everything she touches — including her 135-year-old farmhouse, which she decorates for Halloween and Christmas with such flair that I’m convinced it could star in its own Hallmark movie. (Colette, I’m ready for the invitation to your holiday tour!)
What inspires Colette most
“Life!” she says. She finds inspiration everywhere — in the colors, textures, and moments that surround her. And when she can’t make art, she admits she feels a little sad, because the world is just too full of beauty not to paint it.
This one holds a special place in her heart. She shared that she loved mastering the details — the reflections, the gate, and all those little touches that make a painting come alive. When she stepped back and saw it finished, her reaction was pure joy: “Wow! I did this!” And honestly, that’s one of the best feelings we artists get, isn’t it?
“I love the smooth creaminess of the paints. They blend so well and the colors are so vibrant.”
Oh yes, Colette — you’re speaking my love language. That buttery texture and vibrancy are exactly what make DabblePaints so joyful to work with.
“The thing I enjoy the most is seeing a painting come to life. There is definitely an ugly stage and at some point you step back and it’s, ‘Wow! I did this!’”
I couldn’t agree more. Every painting has that awkward “what is even happening here?” phase — and then, suddenly, it clicks. It’s like magic… or maybe just a little patience and a palette knife.
“Don’t sweat the small stuff! Don’t worry about what someone may think or say about your art. Art contests are won because of a few personal opinions, and not everyone’s opinions are the same.”
Can we get an amen? That’s wisdom worth pinning to every studio wall. Art is your expression — and that’s what makes it beautiful.
Colette, thank you for sharing your story, your art, and your heart with all of us. Your journey reminds us that creativity is a lifelong adventure, and confidence grows every time we pick up the brush.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
XO,
Jen
October 23,2025 Artist Spotlight: Nancy Greening
It’s Jen here, and I’m so excited for you to meet one of the kindest, most dedicated artists in our community — Nancy Greening from beautiful Live Oak, California.
Nancy is an artist whose creative spark began long before she hit double digits. She loved gifting her family and friends those nostalgic paint-by-number creations (you know, the ones with the tiny little numbers that taught us patience and the joy of “coloring inside the lines”… mostly). Even then, her heart was in every brushstroke.
Like many of us, life led her through other creative paths — knitting, crocheting, and sewing — but that whisper to paint never faded. Then one Christmas, her daughter gave her the nudge every artist dreams of: an oil painting class! Her very first painting? The iconic Mt. Hood in Oregon — talk about starting strong.
From there, Nancy dove into the world of William Alexander and Bob Ross (because really, who doesn’t want to paint a “happy little tree”?). But her true artistic rebirth came decades later. In 2019, she revisited painting through online classes, discovered her love for acrylics, and in early 2025, fate stepped in again.
She saw one of my Facebook ads and realized she had once taken a small aspen tree class with me years ago. She jumped right into our Let’s Dabble Group, and since then, she’s been one of our shining stars. Nancy loves the encouragement, the friendships, and the no-fear feedback that helps everyone grow. “I love looking forward each month to new tutorials or the privilege of going to the library to pick something I want to try,” she shared.
“The beauty of ALL God’s creation. I especially like landscapes, birds, and butterflies.”
You can feel that love for nature in every stroke of her palette knife.
Here’s one of Nancy’s stunning paintings — her very first palette knife piece, Young Love, created in February 2025. It tells a story of courage, discovery, and the kind of artistic joy that only comes from following your heart. When I first saw it, I practically did a happy dance in my studio. You can feel her excitement and confidence bursting from the canvas — proof that when passion meets practice, magic happens.
She laughed that the better question would be, “What don’t I like about DabblePaints?”
“I love the creaminess, easy spreadability, and wonderful mixability — there really is nothing I don’t like.”
Nancy, I think you just described exactly why I created these paints!
“The thing I enjoy most is that it takes me away — away from worry, stress, aches, and pains. It puts me into another sphere of mental and physical peace.”
I felt that deep in my artist soul. Painting truly does bring a peace that can’t be explained — it’s like exhaling after a long day and realizing you’ve created something beautiful in the process.
“If you have the desire — DO NOT QUIT. Practice makes perfect. You can fix anything you don’t like with this type of painting. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t like something you’ve done — hang it up, and soon you’ll see the beauty in it. Just don’t quit.”
If there were ever words to paint by, those are it.
Nancy, thank you for sharing your story, your heart, and your incredible journey with us. You’re an inspiration to all of us who believe art has the power to bring peace, purpose, and joy.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
XO,
Jen
October 16, 2025 Artist Spotlight: Karen Turner
It’s Jen here, and I’m over-the-moon excited to introduce you to Karen Turner, a professional artist from beautiful Morehead City, North Carolina. Karen’s story is one of pure heart, courage, and a little dash of divine timing — the kind that reminds us how creativity always finds a way to bloom.
Karen’s art journey began just a couple of years ago, back in 2023, when she started painting for fun. She decided to show her very first piece to her neighbor — and that neighbor immediately asked her to paint a beach scene with turtles!
Now, if you’ve ever had someone request a painting when you’re just starting out, you’ll understand Karen’s mix of shock and delight. “What, you want me to paint something for your home?!” she remembers thinking. But she went for it — and nailed it. Her neighbor was thrilled and encouraged her to keep painting.
That moment lit a spark that hasn’t stopped glowing since. Soon after, a well-known artist recognized Karen’s talent and offered her a 12-week course in painting techniques — a gift that came right when she needed it most. “It was a huge blessing,” Karen said, especially during a tough financial time.
Then came her serendipitous encounter with DabblePaints™ — she saw a little snowman I was painting on an ad for the Dabble Cards, and something in her heart said, yes, that’s for me. That $7 Christmas card kit became her first step into our creative world, and she’s been painting right alongside us ever since.
When I asked what fuels her creativity, Karen’s answer was simple and profound:
“Just seeing a blank canvas turn into a creation.”
Isn’t that the essence of why we paint? The quiet magic of taking nothing — and turning it into something beautiful
The piece Karen shared with us bursts with color and joy — a floral celebration that’s as vibrant as her story. She told me she chose it “because of all the beautiful flowers and colors,” and honestly, it’s impossible not to smile looking at it.
I have to admit — when I first saw her painting, I leaned in like I was trying to smell those flowers through the screen. That’s how alive her colors are
Karen told me,
“How creamy they are and how smooth they go on! Then when you want 3D texture, these paints and colors are the best ever.”
I couldn’t agree more, Karen. That buttery texture is exactly why I fell in love with these paints in the first place. They’re made for artists who love to feel their work.
For Karen, it’s all about the joy of creation and watching a piece come to life. Every brushstroke feels like a blessing — and you can see that gratitude shining right through her work.
Karen shared such beautiful wisdom:
“Relax and enjoy yourself each time you paint. Don’t overthink it. Just give yourself the space to learn and to practice. Go at your own pace — no one is chasing you to finish the task.”
Can we just pause and soak that in? That’s advice every artist — beginner or seasoned — needs to hear from time to time.
Karen, thank you for sharing your story, your faith, and your vibrant art with us. You are a reminder that creativity truly blossoms when we follow our hearts and trust the journey.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
XO,
Jen
October 09, 2025 Artist Spotlight: Karen Andres
It’s Jen here, and I am so excited to introduce you to today’s featured artist, Karen Andres — a talented professional artist whose story truly touched my heart.
Karen’s journey into palette knife painting began with a moment of serendipity. While visiting a gallery in Aspen, she came across my paintings on display, and that experience lit a creative spark that would soon grow into something remarkable.
When she returned home, Karen began following me on Facebook. Later, during a heartbreaking season in her life — after the sudden loss of her husband — she turned to art as a way to find healing and direction. That’s when she discovered palette knife painting, and after just one class, she was completely hooked.
Karen shared, “This art technique was easy and forgiving, and I could develop my own style. Someone once told me, ‘Don’t strive for perfection. Strive for excellence.’ That’s what I feel I can accomplish with palette knife painting under Jen’s tutorage.”
That statement captures the very heart of why I love this art form — it’s not about perfection, it’s about the freedom to create and grow.
What inspires Karen most?
Nature. She loves using photos as reference material, but it’s when she’s painting the beauty of nature that she feels most connected and inspired. She describes it as becoming “a part of creation” — and you can truly feel that connection in her work.
What she loves about DabblePaints™
Karen says, “The paints are amazing. I never would have thought paint could make so much difference in a painting. The creamy texture, the vibrant colors, the way it clings to the canvas actually transform a painting.”
I couldn’t agree more, and hearing her describe it in her own words is exactly why Matt and I created DabblePaints™ in the first place.
What she enjoys most about painting
Karen’s favorite part of painting is the escape — that feeling of being completely absorbed in the creative process and leaving behind the worries of the day. The painting she chose to share isn’t necessarily the one she considers her “best,” but it’s the one that brought her the most joy.
She told me about a lesson where we used cardboard to scrape the background with paint, and she said it was just “so freeing and fun.” That’s exactly what I love to hear — because painting should feel joyful and alive. (And let’s be honest, any day that involves flinging paint with cardboard sounds like a good time!)
Karen’s advice for beginners
The more you paint, the more you’ll improve.
Enjoy the process — your painting is yours alone, and no one else can replicate it. Be proud of it.
Karen, thank you for sharing your story and your art with all of us. Your courage, creativity, and heart are such an inspiration to the Dabble family.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
Happy Dabbling!
Jen
October 2, 2025 Artist Spotlight: Trish Herasme
Hello my Dabble family!
It’s Jen here, and today I have the absolute joy of introducing you to a professional artist whose story is both inspiring and deeply relatable: Trish Herasme from the beautiful Beech Mountain, North Carolina.
Like many of us, Trish discovered her love for art as a child. She was inspired by the mountains, rivers, and the beauty of nature all around her — the kind of beauty that begs to be captured in color. But then, as she put it, “life happened.” Trish stepped away from painting for about 20 years (can you imagine the patience of those paints just waiting for her to return?). In 2017, she picked up her brushes again, and not long after, she discovered Let’s Dabble. Since then, her creative journey has been nothing short of amazing.
What inspires Trish most?
“Definitely God’s wonderful creation,” she told me. And honestly, you can feel that reverence for creation in her work — every stroke carries that sense of awe.
Let’s look at her art!
Here’s two of Trish’s beautiful pieces that she chose to share with us:
When I first saw this, I could almost hear the breeze rushing through the scene. The colors and textures have such vibrancy that you feel like you’re standing right there, soaking it in. I half expected a bird to flutter across my screen while looking at it — that’s how alive it feels.
“They are super smooth and thick. I love the richness of the colors as well.”
Yes, yes, and yes! That buttery texture and richness is exactly why I created these paints — so every artist can feel joy in every swipe of color.
What she enjoys most about painting:
“I enjoy how people react to what I paint. The colors and the texture really stand out to them.”
Isn’t that the best? Art becomes a shared experience, and I love that Trish finds joy in those moments of connection.
Her advice for beginners:
“Don’t try to be perfect right out of the gate. The more you paint, the better you will get. It’s easy to compare yourself to others, but that will steal your joy.”
Oh, how true is that? Comparison is such a thief, but Trish reminds us that joy belongs to the process — to painting again and again until your voice shines through.
Trish, thank you for sharing your journey, your wisdom, and your heart with us. You are a gift to the DabblePaints™ community, and I know your story will encourage so many artists to keep going.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
XO,
Jen
September 25, 2025 Artist Spotlight: Kathy Davig
Hello my Dabble family!
It’s Jen here, and I cannot wait for you to meet today’s featured artist, the wonderful Kathy Davig from Belgrade, Montana. Kathy describes herself as an artist, but after hearing her story and seeing her art, I think we can all agree she’s an artist with a capital A.
The Artist's Journey?
Kathy’s art journey is such a beautiful example of how creativity can show up at just the right time. She had only done one watercolor painting (with her mom’s help) about 25 years ago, and after a short-lived experiment with plastic palette knives (her words: “bad!”), she thought maybe art wasn’t for her. But then—cue the fireworks—she saw my invitation in her Facebook feed in July of 2020. With a little trepidation, she joined the online painting course.
Now, she’ll be the first to tell you, her first three paintings weren’t exactly masterpieces… but by the fourth one, she could see her progress, and she was hooked. And when I say hooked, I mean she dove in headfirst: over 300 paintings, countless post-palette pieces, and even 100 jewelry sets made from dried paint skins. Talk about turning leftovers into treasures—move over, last night’s dinner, Kathy’s leftovers are gallery-worthy.
Retired as of 2022, Kathy now paints every single day. Her former home office has transformed into her Happy Place studio, and she falls asleep dreaming about her next painting. I just love that.
Inspiration
When I asked Kathy what inspires her creativity, she had the most thoughtful answer. Since joining Let’s Dabble, she says she sees the world differently—she notices the play of light and shadow, tree trunks, branches, and those Montana clouds that stretch forever. She finds inspiration in God’s creation, the beauty of the Rocky Mountains, our classes, and even the posts from fellow artists in the Club. That’s the magic of art—it makes us notice the extraordinary in what we used to take for granted.
Artwork Showcase
Here’s the painting Kathy chose to share: “Amalfi’s Allure.”
The Amalfi Coast is one of her favorite places in the world, and this painting was both a huge challenge and one of her proudest achievements. And you can feel it when you look at it. I swear, I can almost hear the waves crashing against the cliffs and smell the lemon trees drifting in on the breeze. It’s such a breathtaking piece, and I love that Kathy poured her heart into it.
In Kathy’s words: “They’re creamy—oh so creamy. And such great coverage. The Lemon Yellow especially is such an upgrade from what we used previously… My leftover dried paint even makes beautiful skins.”
How fun is that? Turning dried paint into jewelry and church art projects. Kathy, you’re officially the queen of upcycling in the most creative way possible.
Kathy told me what she loves most is the sense of accomplishment—going from staring at that intimidating white canvas to stepping back and seeing a finished piece. Even when a painting doesn’t turn out as expected, she views it as a “learning piece.” She also loves trying new techniques, like painting palm trees, waves, and lavender fields, and weaving them into future creations. That’s exactly the adventurous spirit that keeps an artist growing.
Kathy gave us a whole treasure chest of wisdom here:
Baby steps—it won’t come overnight.
Don’t be hard on yourself.
Celebrate your successes (even the little ones).
Follow Jen’s instruction—it’s all fixable.
Watch, paint, rewind… as many times as you need.
Share your art and engage with fellow artists.
Keep your first paintings so you can see your progress.
Never give up.
Most importantly—enjoy the fabulous ride.
Honestly, can we just print this list and tape it above every easel? Such great advice!
Kathy, thank you for sharing your story, your art, and your heart with us. Your generosity, joy, and persistence are such an inspiration to our Dabble Family. You remind us all that it’s never too late to discover the artist inside—and once that spark is lit, there’s no turning back.
September 18, 2025 Artist Spotlight: Joan Hitchcock
Joan is a professional artist who, like many of us, began her journey with something as simple and magical as a box of crayons and a set of Prang watercolors in grade school. One of her early teachers recognized her talent and encouraged her parents to invest in better supplies — and thankfully, they did! That little spark grew into a lifelong exploration of creativity.
Over the years, Joan has experimented with many different mediums, teaching herself along the way. Thanks to the internet, she’s been able to connect with inspiring artists worldwide and take classes that once would have been out of reach.
Nature! The beauty of the seasons, the trees, and the outdoors guide her creativity.
Now, I don’t know about you, but when I first saw this painting, I actually tilted my head back like I was really standing under those birch trees. You almost expect a crunchy leaf to float down and land on your shoulder. That’s how much life and perspective Joan brings to her work.
“Their creamy, glossy, highly pigmented nature. I love that they are in a limited palette, so I know that when I mix colors, my painting will be cohesive.”
“I enjoy the process of bringing my ideas to life and love the texture! I’m a sculptor at heart, and palette knife painting fulfills my need for dimension.”
(And can we just pause here? A sculptor’s heart plus a painter’s palette = hello, texture magic! It’s like peanut butter meeting jelly, but with paint.)
And when I asked Joan what advice she’d give someone just starting their painting journey, she shared a piece of wisdom that I absolutely love:
“We all started as beginners. The more you paint, the better you’ll get, and YOUR style will start showing through.”
Joan, thank you for sharing your story, your art, and your heart with us. You’re such an inspiration to the DabblePaints™ community, and I know so many of our artists will be encouraged by your words and your work.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
XO,
Jen