The Story of Joy of Painting
After years of teaching art, I started to notice that most creative people had something in common. They wondered how to translate their love of making art into a unique style that could grow over time and allow them to express their singular way of seeing the world.
Soon I began thinking a lot about what a program for nurturing artists would look like. How could I help others tap into the kind of creativity that feels endlessly abundant and expresses something special & unique to each person? How could I guide other artists toward an authentic vision uniquely theirs? How could I keep people together and give them the love and support that makes this journey fun? What emerged was a process and philosophy that I've called the "Joy of Painting." And I am truly joyous to share it with you when the doors to Joy of Painting re-open on June 1st. Reserve your spot today!
What Cathy's Students Have Shared...
This Membership has been Incredible!
I recently had the pleasure of joining and participating in Joy of Painting with Cathy! I have only been back in the art world for a year after a 30-year hiatus. I stumbled upon Cathy’s artwork on social media and was so inspired by her work and just knew I had to take a class (or 3)! This membership has been incredible! I’ve learned so many fun techniques, how to use supplies and tools, how neutrals can impact my art (I NEVER used them!) and so much more! Cathy has such a kind and fun spirit, she’s a wonderful teacher and has so much amazing content in her classes. Cathy is very accessible and answers questions in a very timely fashion. I’d like to add that I have grown so much as an artist during this class. My excitement and passion has evolved, my skills are improving daily and I’m having so much FUN!!! Follow Trina's art journey on Instagram @kms.artwork
I sold my first painting (ever)!
I came across mixed media art during the lockdown in 2020 and played around a bunch, but it never felt cohesive. I came across Cathy's Instagram page and fell in love with her work. And when I saw that she was doing mentoring classes in Joy of Painting, I signed right up. It's been very helpful to use her methods and put to use the techniques she's shown us, I even sold my first painting (ever) after only taking the classes for 4 months.
Your course has allowed me to trust my own vision and capabilities
It seems a silly thing, but sometimes striking out on your own, even with some experience under your belt, can be intimidating. Your course has allowed me to trust my own vision and capabilities. Also working alongside other creatives around the world and getting direct feedback from everyone has been invaluable. As we each bring our own visions to life this community has given me the courage and support to know that yes, I can do this too! You took a project that can at times feel overwhelming and made it light, approachable and the encouragement and beauty along the way only fed into my personal well of inspiration. And gosh darn it if you aren't the cutest when you teach, I chuckled along the way and more often than not I had a big smile on my face while I watched the video tutorials. 😘 Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you have shared.
Cathy Lights Up a Room with Her Joy and Positivity
Cathy's class was everything I hoped for and more. Not only was I able to create a 52 card oracle deck under her guidance and wisdom, but it was an absolute joy to do so. Cathy lights up the room with her joy and positivity. She is a cheerleader for each and every one of her students and makes learning all the ins and outs of creating a deck life changing. Seriously. I grew so much in this course and I am so grateful to know the wonderful human who is Cathy Nichols!
Reconnection with My Creative Spirit
Cathy I sincerely want to thank you so much for this class and how it has been such a huge shift in my life and my work - it’s been such a great challenge as an artist to think in a more collective body of work and language and even though I finished the deck I find myself still wanting to explore how to expand the ideas and push myself more - this is actually closer to the way I used to paint and create and explore in college and when I wasn’t doing art as my full income back in the day and I have missed this so much and it’s helped me realize I can paint “my” way and it can speak to people. I was getting so caught in the trap of painting what markets showed me would sell but this reconnection with my creative spirit has been the most rewarding experience I have had in such a long time. So thank you truly. Such a blessing.
Monthly Art Projects to Grow Your Technique & Vison
I've chosen each monthly project with care to help you follow your joy, tap into your gifts and keep developing as an artist. Core content revolves around 4 main areas: Creativity & Flow, Technique, Personal Vision and Inspiration from Master Artists. On the 1st of each month, you'll say hello to a new video tutorial, step-by-step PDF and color palette to keep you growing and thriving as an artist.
Path to Finding Your Authentic Artistic Voice
The Joy of Painting Success Path
We are all unique and have a special way of seeing the world. In Joy of Painting, I help you to tap into your singular gifts and to develop your own style. In the Joy of Painting Success Path, I share my life-changing process for finding your voice and developing your creativity, vision, technique so that you can embrace the radiant artist within!
A New Color Palette Each Month
Gorgeous color combos to inspire you.
Color is the beginning of every one of my paintings, and in "Joy of Painting" I curate a new beautiful color palette with paint names every month. I use the palette in the monthly projects, too, to show you how to work with color for harmony and balance. All the palettes are stored in our "Resource Library" to use for future reference.
Community
Access to our safe, private, Joy of Painting Community located within our membership. This is a place to share your work, be seen and make friends around the world. There will be occasional live Zoom meetings with special guests and bonding activities!
You'll also have access to our Community Resource Library -- a go-to, always growing space featuring the best paint, supports, pens, and vendors for the art supplies that make painting truly joyful. As a Founding Member, you will have unique access to co-creating our space for the future!
About Cathy
Your Teacher & Guide Cathy Nichols
About Cathy Nichols
Cathy Nichols is a full-time artist, oracle card designer, and online teacher. She specializes in vibrant mixed media paintings with layered handmade papers, sheet music, flowers and all things joyful. Her popular online courses include “Mixed Media – Painting Modern Expressive Flowers,” and “Create Your Own Oracle Deck.
You can find Cathy’s studio in the River Arts District of Asheville, NC, where she lives with her family and paints her colorful, layered stories.
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FAQ
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What if I don't like the membership? Can I cancel?
Yes, You can cancel at any time. You will only be charged for the month(s) that you are a member.
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Are lessons mandatory? What if I get busy and can't make art for a month or so?
Joy of Painting is about JOY, not stress. The membership is always here to support you on your journey. You are welcome to do the lessons as they best suit your time and lifestyle. You will have access to all past and present lessons as long as you are a member. As my favorite yoga teacher always said, "do you best, and leave the rest behind."
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Will the price of Joy of Painting increase for me, or will I be 'grandfathered in' at my sign-up price?
One of the biggest benefits of becoming a member right now is that you will NEVER have your membership price increased as long as you remain a member in good standing.
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Will the content be suited to beginners AND experienced artists?
YES! I've created the Joy of Painting Success Path to help you identify your own level of experience as an artist before you begin. Once you've identified where you lie within the 5-stage journey, you'll be able to tailor the membership content to fit your needs. So, if you are a beginner or a professional artist who has been painting for years, there is something wonderful to be learned from each monthly lesson.