Water from the Scottish Loch

Art Prompt #2: Painting outdoors using water from Loch Canaird, capturing echos of tranquility.

Happy Surprises is a free weekly newsletter. If you enjoy reading and find inspiration in this creative space, consider sharing this fun art prompt or joining an upcoming creative workshops next month. More on that next week. Thank you for reading.

waiting for the right moment to gather some water for my sketchbook session

The combination of discovering a new place, swimming in the wild, and painting afterward fills my heart with happiness and pure satisfaction. A satisfaction that goes a long way and stays with me for a long time. It’s been more than two weeks since I was at this quiet spot, and I am still talking about it.

Scotland is a small country, yet sheep dot the landscape wherever you cast your gaze, and that's something I just can’t get enough of. Cruising along Scotland's coastline is akin to embarking on a picturesque journey through breathtaking views of sunlight shining on lochs, mist enveloping mountains, and the coastal area experiencing rain or sunshine. There were moments when it genuinely transported me to the Outlander series' settings. Well, perhaps not quite the same, but I could envision Claire and Jamie riding together on horseback. I suppose I've become an even greater fan of the show than I was before. Are you a fan of the show?

As the day drew to a close, we departed from Ullapool and reached Loch Canaird, Ardmair for the night. Amidst our connection with the beauty of nature and exploration of art galleries, while skimming through illustrated books from the local shop, a strong desire to take a swim on a warm summer day and an opportunity to engage in some painting emerged.

The excitement was irresistible. Right after we got there, I collected everything I needed and went down to the water. I jumped in for a cold but refreshing swim in the Loch, and I was surprised for us to be the only one in the water.

Then, I settled among the stones, as comfortable one can get sitting on stones, and I took out my art supplies, and realised I forgot to bring water. Even though I could have easily gone back to the car for water in less than five minutes, the idea of using the sea's water was too appealing. I was drawn by the adventure it held. It felt like the right thing to do at that moment. I mean, why not, right?

I had no cup or any other resource besides my watercolor palette, but I found the chance to scoop a splash of water into it. Patience and determination came together, making it simpler than it might seem.

Reflecting on it now, it feels a bit silly to have made such a big deal out of it. However, if you've never attempted this creative interaction with nature and your art — you're in for a such a treat, an experience that adds a touch of magical alchemy to your creative exploration!

First comes the swim, followed by the drawing session

Friday Fun Prompt

Venture beyond tradition and swap fresh water to experiment with your creativity using the water from a nearby lake, bay, or a loch if you find yourself in the Scottish area. Take your watercolor palette to a refreshing natural setting. Let the essence of the water blend into your artwork, infusing it with tranquil energy that captures an air of mystery and calmness in your creative expression.

Painting outdoors is more than just replicating what you see — it’s a channel to tap into the enchanting mystery of nature while expressing your inner self through art.

The more I strive to release concerns about what I intend to paint or how the artwork should appear, the easier it becomes to shed away expectations. So let the playful spirit infuse your art, guiding you to embrace the present moment within nature's serene embrace.

Another swim the next day