It's a cozy, rainy Friday - a perfect day to read. I have spent the last few hours listening to two of my favorite sounds, the rain on our skylights and our two Great Danes snoring, while reading Jeanne Carbonetti's The Tao of Watercolor, A Revolutionary Approach to the Practice of Painting.

More than a "how to," this book is an esoteric read on the philosophy of watercolors. Applying the principles presented in the Tao Te Ching, Jeanne writes about how to unite spirit, mind and body to achieve inspiration and craftsmanship in watercolors. The chapter headings include: Introduction: Beginner's Mind, Centering, Balance, Deliberateness, Playfulness, Flow, The Tao of Tools, Effortless Effort, and Conclusion: The Practice of Painting.

It was not exactly an easy read although I found it really enjoyable. Meditative in tone, central themes include not being self-critical, the joy of discovery, trusting one's creative journey, and mindfulness. All great themes for life!

Jeanne's painting style is very different than my own but I am drawn to learning from all corners of the world. Here is a painting I did following her book's suggestions.

When we create from the unity of body, mind, and spirit, we are one with our muse, and our work is always original, always powerful. ~ Jeanne Carbonetti