It’s important to understand color and how it might show up in one’s art, especially watercolor. It would be a tedious read to go through all the “do’s and don’ts” that I have read and experienced with watercolor pigments.

I do however want to share what I have learned when creating a 4th of July holiday card and why the colors Red, White, and Blue were chosen for the US Flag. Red: hardiness and valor; White, purity and innocence; Blue, vigilance, perseverance and justice.

As I pursued the creation of a 4th of July card, I reminded myself of the courage it took and continues to take to keep our nation free, and safe; that we must be clear about the principles that govern us and to remain steadfast as we find ourselves needing to pivot and adapt in an ever changing world while not losing our way.

For me, the gold thread, though not represented in our flag, symbolizes unity.

Happy Birthday, America