A workspace with a butterfly illustration in a sketchbook, a yellow mechanical pencil, a wooden ruler, and a container of . There is a green book or box with a butterfly specimen, a green plant pot, and a plastic storage box with compartments of butterfly specimens.

Inside the Studio

Every painting begins long before the brush touches the panel.

These articles explore the quiet observations, compositional thinking, and processes that shape my work—from growing the flowers I paint to studying pollinators, composing with the Harmonic Armature, and documenting animal skulls from life. Whether you're discovering my paintings for the first time or looking to deepen your own creative practice, welcome.

Christine Mercer-Vernon 12/8/22 Christine Mercer-Vernon 12/8/22

How to Make a Lightbox to Photograph Art

How to make a light box to photograph original art and small paintings without glare using simple items from around your home.

3 Spaces You Should Never Hang Original Art

There are places in your home where it's not a great idea to hang original artwork. Read now for three places you shouldn’t hang art and why!

6 Artist Resources for Animal Skulls and Bones

Looking for animal skull resources for drawing and painting? Real bone to replicas, here are 6 places to buy or find skulls for artists.