Written by Hi there! I’m Sissh, my full name is Sihlengile Gwamanda, I’m an aspiring artist from South Africa (follow me on Instagram and follow my blog on WordPress!). Ever since I was a young girl, I’ve always enjoyed creating and making things – If I’m painting or drawing or crafting; I’m in my happy place.
I have always admired art done in watercolour; from children’s book illustrations to doodles and urban sketches to paintings exhibited in galleries. There’s always been a curious element that drew me in with watercolour. But for some reason I never really tried them out until early last year when I decided to start chasing my dream again of becoming a proper artist.
I had studied fine art at university a few years back but I had horrible experiences due to social anxiety and depression. I had meltdowns because at the time I was not aware of myself enough. I’ve since been able to get myself back up and thanks to the age that we live in. When I made the decision to go back to art, I was able to find plenty of tutorials and blog post and people to learn from on the internet.
After having tried different mediums I felt a particular affinity to watercolours. It’s the almost unpredictable way the pigments blend together, the delicate yet vibrant feel when dry and the many ways you can work with the medium. My art is inspired by nature, beauty, the abstract and fantasy in varying degrees. I paint mostly from photos at the moment but I am slowly getting into the habit of going out there and painting what I see or come across.
I use Daler-Rowney pans and the Pentel Aquash brush to paint with after having gone over the initial pencil sketch with acrylic ink or a fine liner. I haven’t quite found my particular style yet but I’m enjoying the process.
You can follow my journey on my blog or on Instagram where I post sketches and extra little bits as well as finished art. Thanks for reading!
Thanks for sharing your beautiful artwork Sissh. I like how you use your color in surprising ways. Thank you Charlie.
Thanks so much Sharon!! Glad you liked Sissh’s work!
This sharing venue you have made, Charlie, for inspiring artists around the world…what a joy! Sissh is remarkable and that also includes her creativity and watercolour artistry!
Thanks Raylene! 💕😃 It’s been so fun to feature a range of artists! Glad you liked Sissh’s work!
Hi Sissh! I think your work is beautiful, especially your portraits! To me, they represent women who may be shy or quiet but so much to express. I love them! Will be following on IG!! Thank you!
Yay to the follow Kari!! Love hearing that!! 😉👍🏻❤️
Thank you both for some great inspiration!
Thanks so much Jodi!! 💕😃
Sissh definitely knows how to use colors to evoke mood. I hope she’ll continue to enjoy and partake of art!
Yeah, she’s great isn’t she?! So glad you liked her work as well, Teresa! 😃💕
Delightful watercolors. Hope you enjoy your adventures in exploring with watercolours, the possibilities are endless. Thank you Charlie for sharing a lovely post.
Thank your Haunani for your wonderful comment! 😉❤️😃
<3
Very nice work.
Thanks Damita! So glad you liked this feature! 😃
Oh I like how delicate these are!
Aren’t they great?! Glad you liked them!!
Lovely work!