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Dear Creative Hearts,

As we bid farewell to 2023, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you for being an integral part of the Tranquil Canvas Art Academy community. Whether you've actively participated in my classes or engaged with our online courses, your unwavering support has truly made a difference.

Reflecting on the year that's passed, I'm reminded of a quote by Joey Weber that resonates deeply: "Gratitude for the good reinforces our own sense of fortune; appreciation for the bad teaches us humility. The nasty side of life shows us what we lack, what we hope, and where we need to grow. Pain can actually encompass the right node of spiritual growth, even more so than what we already have."

Moving into 2024, let's not only express thanks for the positive moments but also appreciate the challenges that have shaped us. Life, like art, is a canvas of experiences, and each stroke contributes to our unique masterpiece.

In the spirit of embracing the new year with kindness and an adventurous artistic mindset, let's recognize that both joy and adversity play a role in our growth. The universe holds infinite possibilities for those open to them, and creativity becomes a beacon guiding us forward.

To add a festive touch to your holidays, I've curated some fantastic art resources, including one from Tranquil Canvas. Explore, enjoy, and infuse your holidays with creativity!

Wishing you a restful and joyful holiday season filled with gratitude and artistic inspiration.

With heartfelt thanks,

Dr Soma Mandal Datta (PhD)

Professional Artist and Champion of Creative Expression

​www.tranquilcanvas.com​

​https://www.artacademy.tranquilcanvas.com.au/​

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Resources for the Drawing Artist:

A highly recommended book for those eager to learn or enhance their drawing skills is by Alphonso Dunn titled' Pen and Ink Drawing'. This two-part book is readily available in both online and offline stores. You can find it here.

If you're not in the mood to wait, you can also explore Alphonso Dunn's video channel, offering a diverse array of drawing tutorials for your enjoyment over the holidays and beyond. Visit his channel here.

Resources for the Watercolourist:

For watercolour enthusiasts, Gordon MacKenzie's book, The Complete Watercolorist's Essential Notebook, is a treasure trove of watercolour secrets accumulated through decades of painting and experimentation. This book, suitable for both beginners and experts, guides learners through step-by-step watercolour exercises and progresses to advanced yet easily manageable projects. Check out the book here.

Additionally, here's a captivating step-by-step video by Professional Artist Paul Clark, demonstrating how to paint a stunning Winter Snow Scene in Watercolour. View the video here.

Resources for the Acrylic Painter:

Explore the magic of acrylics with a quick tutorial on painting a Winter Wonderland Landscape in just 10 minutes here. For beginners, try your hand at an acrylic painting featuring a reindeer silhouette here.

Resources for the Mixed-Media Artist:

For the mixed-media artist, Karen O’Brien's book, Imaginary Characters: Mixed-Media Painting Techniques for Figures and Faces, is a personal favorite. This comprehensive guide covers both basic and advanced techniques for creating whimsical characters while inspiring you to unleash your imagination in any creative direction. It delves into image transfers, textures, mark-making, and more. Find the book here.

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