In the pursuit of holiday perfection, we often forget to simply have fun. That’s where this unique Christmas tree art exercise comes in, designed specifically to help you let go of perfectionism and embrace the joy of creating.
Using a white candle and watercolors, you’ll create a piece of art that’s as unpredictable as it is beautiful.
This exercise is a wonderful tool for stress relief and combating perfectionism. The act of drawing with a candle, without being able to see the results immediately, forces you to let go of control and embrace uncertainty. It encourages mindfulness, as you focus on the present moment and the sensations of drawing.
Once you reveal your artwork with watercolors, it offers a sense of surprise and achievement, irrespective of the outcome. This process can be liberating, allowing you to enjoy creativity without the pressure of perfection.
Please let me know if you’ve tried this one; I would love to see it.
You can find a small video of this exercise on my Instagram @thecreativecooldown
Supplies used:
Watercolor paper 300 grams (Arches), candle, watercolor (Kuretake & Coliro), gelly roll pen (Sakura)(not pictured), brush, paper towel, and washi tape.
Alternative supply suggestions:
You can use your kids’ watercolor paints or other paint.
If you don’t have a candle, you can use a white wax crayon instead.
Step 1: Drawing your invisible Christmas tree
Before you start, take a deep breath. Let go of any thoughts that have been troubling you.
Start by using the white candle to draw a Christmas tree on your watercolor paper. Go slow, and enjoy the motion and the feel of the candle on the paper. Remember, the charm is in the unseen lines you’re creating.
Feel free to add branches, ornaments, or a star on top, embracing the uncertainty of how it will turn out.
Step 2: Revealing your drawing
Now, gently brush watercolors over your drawing. The lines drawn with the candle will resist the watercolor, revealing your Christmas tree in a unique, unexpected way.
Experiment with blending different colors. Don’t worry about achieving a perfect tree; this exercise is all about the surprise and beauty of imperfection.
Step 3: Add decorations
After the watercolor has dried, you can add extra details if desired. Use pens to add dots, stars, or any additional decorations to your Christmas tree.
This Christmas, give yourself the gift of imperfection through art. This candle and watercolor exercise is not just about creating a festive piece but also about enjoying the process, laughing at the surprises, and learning to appreciate the beauty in imperfection.
Until next time, take care and keep those creative juices flowing!
If you liked this exercise, you might also like my mindful lines and baubles exercise.
