Notecard Series

WATERCOLOR & SKETCHING
DIGITAL IMAGE MANUPULATION

Personal Project | July 2021

I developed a series of personal notecards, inspired by my appreciation for handwritten, heartfelt communications. Each card relies solely on imagery to project one of four broad themes — Cheerful, Informative, Sympathetic, or Personal — which allows flexibility of usage. The writer directs the tone of the card, while the cover imagery adapts and echoes.

My watercolor image rendering technique elevates the feeling of a deep personal connection.

Personal Reflection on Writing Habits

Determining Themes, Associated Moods, and Appropriate Imagery

CHEERFUL

Optimistic bright positive welcoming happy energizing uplifting

Floral arrangement

INFORMATIVE

Neutral reserved modest professional refined sophisticated

Message in a bottle

SYMPATHETIC

Mindful reflective calm peaceful serene introspective

Tranquil treeline

PERSONAL

Caring thoughtful loving intimate deep warm kind homey

Flaming candle or lantern

Initial Sketching

Style & Methods

Watercolor image renderings and hand sketched notes enhance the feeling of authenticity & personality associated with each card.

I developed a digital translation technique for converting a watercolor image in a manner that preserves the authentic texture, form, and quality.

Image Selection & Modification

Content of the background image provides context for the watercolor image, while the duotone color reflects the intended mood.

A gaussian blur allows focus to remain on the foreground elements.

Combining All Elements

A curved gradient fuses the foreground elements and the background.