For January’s Art Inspiration, I’m inviting you to paint your own version of “Blessed 2026.”
Not as a finished masterpiece.
But as a quiet moment to start the year with intention.

And also—with permission.

Permission to try.
Permission to change your mind.
Permission to make mistakes and keep going.

This page didn’t turn out the way I imagined at first. My initial watercolor design wasn’t what I hoped for, and instead of starting over, I chose to work with it. I covered it with a layer of gouache, then mixed white gouache with watercolor to paint the butterfly, flowers, and lettering on top.

What felt like a “mistake” became part of the story. That’s something I want to encourage you to embrace this month: art doesn’t have to begin perfectly to become meaningful.

My Process (as inspiration, not a rule)

If it helps you get started, here’s how I approached this page:

• Framed the page with washi tape
• Chose a soft background wash
• Allowed myself to adjust and layer when things didn’t work
• Combined watercolor, gouache, and oil pastels for details

Feel free to follow this loosely—or ignore it completely. The goal isn’t to copy, but to explore. Make it yours.

You can download the PDF lettering guide if tracing helps you relax into the process. Or you can hand-letter, paint, or interpret Blessed 2026 in your own visual language.

🎥 Watch the Process on Instagram
I’ll be sharing a short video of my “Blessed 2026” painting process on my Instagram @leslumieresdesigns. Follow along to see the layers, techniques, and little details come to life!

Share Your Work

When you’re ready, I’d love for you to upload a photo of your artwork below and share a few words about your process. Your work might encourage someone else more than you realize.

Let this be a month of intention, patience, and grace—on paper and beyond.

Tip of the Month: The Paper Matters

One reason I felt free to layer, correct, and experiment on this page is the paper itself. I painted this January piece inside my 100% cotton watercolor notebook.

• Thick cotton paper absorbs water beautifully
• Supports gouache and mixed media
• Gives you room to make changes without panic
• The right paper removes a lot of hidden pressure:
• You’re less afraid of “ruining” a page
• Layers behave better and stay luminous

This notebook isn’t about producing perfect pages. It’s about giving yourself a space where exploration feels safe.

If you’ve been waiting for a sketchbook that truly supports slow growth, this one was made exactly for that.

👉 Explore the Cotton Watercolor Notebook here

With love Flay 🐝