Mindful Painting Practice: Creating Beautiful Flower Studies with Gouache

Sometimes the most nourishing art sessions happen when we least expect them. A few days ago, I found myself settling into my favorite corner with nothing more than my watercolor sketchbook and a small set of gouache paints.

Artist's hand holding watercolor sketchbook with four gouache flower paintings, surrounded by colorful paint palette, mixing tray, and brushes on dark surface — Gouache Flower Study Sketchbook with Paint Palette

I’d been listening to one of my favorite art channels on YouTube – you know those cozy studio videos where artists share their process? Suddenly I felt this urge to create something myself. Instead of my usual habit of mindlessly doodling in my notebook margins, I quickly pulled up some flower references on Pinterest and decided to let my hands move with color.

Overhead view of gouache flower paintings in sketchbook surrounded by colorful paint palette, mixing tray, watercolor brushes, and painting tools on dark surface — Gouache Painting Setup with Flower Studies and Art Supplies

There’s something so freeing about painting without a plan. These four little flower studies emerged naturally, each one teaching me something different about color mixing and the way light catches petals. The blue pansies reminded me why I love that vibrant contrast of orange centers against cool blues. The butterfly felt playful to paint – all those intricate patterns and textures. The purple bloom became an exercise in layering translucent washes, while the peachy magnolia let me explore warmer tones.

What struck me most was how meditative the whole process felt. My mind quieted as I focused on mixing just the right shade or getting the curve of a petal to feel natural. No pressure, no expectations – just the simple joy of watching colors blend and flowers come to life on paper.

Four gouache flower paintings in open sketchbook showing blue pansies, butterfly, purple bloom, and orange magnolia on white paper — Gouache Flower Studies in Watercolor Sketchbook

These small studies might not hang in a gallery, but they serve their own important purpose. They keep my hands moving, my eyes observing, and my creative spirit fed. Sometimes that’s exactly what we need.

Do you ever get that sudden urge to paint while watching or listening to other artists work? I’d love to hear what brings you that same sense of peaceful flow.

Art supplies that I used for this study: