“I could never do that” | What I hate about “talent.”

I like to draw.       I like to play piano.       I like to write.       And I like to share that with people. A lot of times, this is what I hear: “You’re so good at it! I could never  do that.” I’ve heard this far too often, and usually, I just tak...

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Oct 24, 2025
Q & A with Elaine

Well, it was a close race, but welcome, Elaine Beck! Readers have picked you for the interview! We're all so excited to have you on Shades of Art for — Heavens, yes! Thank you so much. You have no idea how excited I was when you dropped by and...

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Oct 17, 2025
Goat Milk Soap, Anyone?

Over the past year, I have come to know and love a very dear family that resides in Virginia in a lovely place called Weeping Willow...

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Sep 19, 2025
When my Art Exploded

I know it was forever ago that I wrote the blog post When my Writing Exploded , but when I did, I promised that I would have a part two:...

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Sep 12, 2025
Chasing Summer Sunbeams

I obviously missed most of summer, so pardon the suddenly summery-themed blog posts, while the weather is growing cooler, and everyone's...

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Sep 05, 2025
Summer on My Mountain

Badminton with my siblings... Wild roses... Thunderstorms... And the window pane after... Freshly cut grass... Wild roses and gates......

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Aug 29, 2025