Watercolor Creation Inspiration
Strong women. Nature. Myth and Legend. Spirituality. Epic Adventure.
Watercolor painting is a meditative, spiritual, and creative outlet for Erie, PA native Melissa McGaughey (she/her). With a background in art education, religious studies, and a concentration in watercolor and oil painting, her work addresses what it's like to be a woman existing in the patriarchy, transforming the metaphorical armor women strap themselves into every day into actual armor.
As a lesbian-identified woman, WLW themes are evident in her work. She seeks to provide the positive representation for lesbian, bi, pan, and queer identified women and girls that she was lacking as a girl and young woman. Irish and Celtic mythology and folklore are also a big influence on her work. Occasionally, she also makes some pretty rad WLW book recs on her blog as well.
JOIN THE WLW ART FAM
I've always been passionate about creating safe, creative spaces for women no matter how they identify, bi, pan, lesbian, queer, allied. No matter. If you're a woman seeking a safe creative space, you're welcome here.
Become a Patron
Starting at just $3 a month, get access to exclusive offers and behind-the-scenes content.
"I'm here to take back and re-work the paintings that depicted women solely as objects, victims, or seductresses."
Purchase a Print
Need something special super quick and on-the-fly for a special someone? Take a look at my Etsy store. There's something there waiting for you.
Request a Commission
Whether you're looking for a portrait of a loved one, you and your partner, or a pet, I will create something unique and beautiful for you.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
"Melissa did a fantastic job on a watercolor painting for my boyfriend's dad. It was incredibly detailed and looked just like a photo of the dog I gave her as reference. He loved it! I would recommend Melissa to anyone who needs a commissioned, one-of-a-kind piece of art!"
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Books and Resources
Free downloadble resources!
Get your copy of these free ebooks now.
You're a Little
Monkey
What does a monkey say? Teach children the most common and easy-to-learn animal sounds through this fun, interactive story filled with beautiful illustrations of animals with their mothers.
Story by Angela Magee. Illustrations by Melissa McGaughey.
Watercolor Painting Handbook
Whether you’re a beginner artist or you’ve been painting for a few years, this handbook outlining my tools, processes, and techniques will prove valuable.
The Selkie and Her Knight
A woman's magic is stolen from her and she becomes someone's possession for seven long years. But, what happens when the selkie keeps her coat? When she's cherished instead of coveted?
