Painting on Vacation at the Stanley Hotel

Hi, friends! Mr. Jane (AKA Vince) and I are back from our vacation at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, and we had such an amazing time! While we were there, I thought it would be super fun to make something to remember our trip. You know, something more than just goofy photos like this one (and the 1,000 others that were taken). Fortunately, I brought my paints, camera, and an idea, and Vince was more than happy to help!

We decided to go explore the grounds of this beautiful, historic hotel, which includes a small (and still pretty young) hedge maze. While we walked around, we were both on the lookout for little bits of plants and sticks that were interesting. I was worried there wouldn't be much to pick up this time of year, but by the time we were done in the maze, I had a fistful of planty-bits™, and I was ready to go!

Later that day, I took my findings, set up my camera and paints, and got busy! That's right! I filmed a video for you while I was on vacation. I'm always thinkin' of you guys ♥

When I was done, I had several unique, beautiful, handmade paint brushes, so of course I had to try them out!

I decided on watercolor because I was worried that the brushes would be too delicate to use with acrylic paint. No planning, and really no idea whether or not this would even work out! I was so excited with the outcome, though! My quick, abstracted landscape painting was so much fun to make. Discovering the different textures and marks created by each brush was such a joy, and somewhat challenging! I hope you'll check out the video (which features Mr. Jane too!!), and then go explore a place that has a special meaning for you, pick up bits of plants, make your own natural paint brushes, and then create with abandon!

I think I'm going to frame my little painting, along with the brushes and our key card for haunted Room 217. Oh, yeah, I forgot to mention that part! We stayed in the room where Stephen King stayed when he was inspired to write The Shining. How cool is that?! Did we see any ghosts? Well, I don't want to spoil the surprise, but there might be a ghost at the end of the video :) Check out the video and leave me a comment to let me know what you think. If you try making your own paint brushes from natural materials, I would absolutely LOVE to see! Make sure you share on Instagram and tag me @painting_with_jane.