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Art medium: Watercolor. Beginning to dabble into charcoal sketches.

Were you always interested in following a creative path? I have always loved to create—mostly DIY building, home decor or kids’ crafts.

Why focus on watercolor? In 2020, when the world shifted, I needed an outlet. I am a Critical  Care Nurse with three young kids at home. Going to work with the stresses of the unknowns of Covid I needed a simple quiet outlet to help me digest what I was going through. I began to watercolor with my kids each day and it became a relaxing escape.

How do you describe your craft? A light whimsical escape.

What are some examples of pieces you’ve done in the past? I am very fond of painting flowers. The flowing character of petals and leaves with the overlay of color pulls me in. I have been exploring painting animals, people, buildings and travel destinations; however, I am always pulled back to the beauty of flowers.

Do you have a favorite design/piece? It is always changing with my season of life. Currently my favorite one is a picture I painted of a mom and daughter. It is very raw and makes me want to hold time as my three year old tries to grow up on me.

One thing most people wouldn’t guess about your craft or being an artist in general: That I paint. I think that surprises a lot of people who I work with or who know me. It has truly become such a fulfilling passion and outlet.

Why do you love what you do? The freedom watercolor gives to adapt the medium to what you envision and sometimes, if not majority of the time, to allow it to just “be.”

Early bird or night owl? Neither. I am a middle of the day kind of person, I like to sleep in and go to bed early—possibly even take a nap!

Music/podcasts while working or silence? Audiobooks, if able, otherwise usually one if not all three kiddos in the background or by my side painting along with me.

What makes you happiest: My family.

Find Cassandra on Instagram and Facebook @CassandraAnnWatercolors and at www.vandreese.com/artwork