As the new year unfolds, many people start looking for ways to stay inspired, motivated, and focused on their goals. Although setting resolutions is a traditional way to begin the year, not everyone feels fully aligned with this practice. For some, the pressure of keeping up with resolutions can become overwhelming, leading to frustration and disappointment. But there’s another, often more personal, way to stay on track and inspire yourself throughout the year: choosing a word that encapsulates the intention and feeling you want to embrace in the months ahead. This word becomes your anchor—a guiding light for everything you wish to focus on, nurture, and manifest.
Your “word of the year” can act as a reminder of your deepest desires, serving as a daily source of motivation and guidance. Whether it's “growth,” “rest,” or “joy,” the word you choose should be something that resonates deeply with you, making it not just a phrase, but a powerful tool for reflection and action. One of the best parts about this idea is its simplicity—just one word, but with the power to steer your mindset and behavior for the entire year. But we can take this concept a step further by transforming your word into a beautiful, meaningful work of art. This piece can then serve as a physical reminder that you can display and return to whenever you need a moment of inspiration.
Gather Your Supplies for the Artistic Journey
To start your creative journey, it’s important to gather the right materials. This is where you can get as creative as you'd like! While I’ll guide you through using acrylic paints on acrylic paper, feel free to experiment with whatever supplies you have at hand. Remember, it’s not about the specific products but the personal meaning you invest into them.
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Acrylic Paint: I prefer the vibrant shades from the Liquitex range, but any acrylic paint will work. The key is to select a color that reflects the essence of the word you’ve chosen. Whether it's calming blues, vibrant reds, or earthy greens, let the color speak to the emotion or energy of the word.
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Canvas or Paper: The surface you choose depends on what you feel most comfortable working with. Acrylic paper is a great option because it’s designed to handle the weight of acrylic paint without warping. You can also use watercolor paper, mixed media paper, or even canvas. If you prefer something unconventional, why not try using wood, glass, or fabric?
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Brushes: For this project, a basic set of brushes is all you need. A flat brush will be essential for covering larger areas, while a smaller round brush is ideal for adding details and fine lines. I personally recommend brushes from the Simply Simmons brand for their precision and ease of use. However, feel free to use whatever you have in your art kit!
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Gold Embellishments: To give your piece that extra sparkle and depth, gold embellishments are an excellent choice. You can use gold leaf for a luxurious touch, or opt for gold acrylic paint, gilding wax, or gold paint pens. These materials add a special kind of radiance to your art, making it even more powerful and eye-catching.
Step 1: Choose Your Word
The first step in creating a meaningful and personal visual representation of your aspirations is to choose the word that will serve as your guide for the year. This word will hold significant meaning and act as a touchstone for your intentions, helping you remain focused and aligned with your goals throughout the year. Choosing this word is not something that should be rushed. Instead, take your time and allow yourself to reflect deeply on what you truly desire to manifest in the upcoming months.
Think about what you want to feel, focus on, or develop. You may be considering areas of your life that need attention, such as nurturing relationships, building your career, or taking care of your mental and physical well-being. The word you choose should represent the energy you want to bring into your life. Perhaps you want to cultivate a sense of calm amidst life’s chaos, so a word like “peace” or “balance” may resonate. Or, maybe you're looking to grow your creativity, which could make the word “inspiration” or “creativity” a great fit. Maybe you want to focus on your personal growth, and words like “elevation,” “resilience,” or “growth” might be ideal.
During this stage, it’s important to stay open to the possibilities and give yourself permission to brainstorm without judgment. Don’t worry about picking the "perfect" word right away. Let your ideas flow naturally, and as you jot down potential options, allow your feelings and intuition to guide the process. Sometimes, the perfect word might not be the one you first expect, but it will be the one that resonates with you the most.
Once you have compiled a list of potential words, take a step back and consider which one best reflects your true desires and intentions for the year. Ask yourself questions like: What do I want to bring into my life this year? What energy do I want to cultivate? Which word feels like it encompasses the changes I want to see? Your chosen word should feel like it represents a deeper vision for your future and inspire action. It should feel motivating every time you think of it, reminding you of what you hope to accomplish, achieve, or experience. Remember, this word will act as a guiding light for the year ahead, and it will help keep you grounded as you work toward your personal and professional goals.
Don’t overthink it. Choose a word that truly resonates with you, and trust that it will be the key to unlocking the energy you want to attract throughout the year. Words like “hope,” “love,” “abundance,” or “mindfulness” may seem simple, but they carry great depth and potential. Whether it’s something that reflects a goal, a mindset, or an emotion, your word will serve as a constant reminder of your purpose. Once you’ve narrowed it down to one word, you’re ready to move on to the next step in the creative process.
Step 2: Design Your Word’s Layout
Now that you’ve chosen your word, it’s time to start designing how it will appear visually on your chosen medium. The way you layout your word can deeply influence how it feels and how it resonates with you. The design you choose should reflect the energy and meaning of the word itself, making it not just an aesthetic choice but a deeply symbolic one. You want the final piece to evoke the same emotions the word itself represents.
To begin this process, take a moment to visualize your word and how you want it to look. Do you want it to be bold and impactful or soft and gentle? Sketch a few variations of the word’s design, exploring different ways the letters can be arranged. You may decide to play with the size of the letters or add flourishes that complement the feeling behind the word. It’s not just about writing the word down; it’s about bringing it to life in a way that visually communicates its meaning.
For example, if your word is “strength,” you might opt for strong, angular lettering. You could use thick, block-style letters with sharp edges to convey the sense of power and stability that the word represents. Alternatively, if your word is “calm,” you might choose flowing, round lettering that feels more fluid and soothing. For words like “growth” or “elevation,” you could use rising shapes, curves, or lines that stretch upwards, symbolizing progress and expansion.
Play around with different fonts, placements, and embellishments. Should the letters be stacked, layered, or spaced evenly across the page? Would you prefer a linear design, or does the word seem to demand a more abstract form that allows for movement and flow? Consider whether the word should stand alone or interact with other elements around it. If you’re creating a design that incorporates natural elements, like “peace” or “nature,” perhaps adding delicate leaves, vines, or soft patterns around the letters will enhance the meaning of the word. If your word is “adventure,” you might choose a bold, adventurous font with rugged lines and textures.
It’s important to give yourself the creative freedom to experiment. Try several different iterations of your word. Explore different letter shapes, fonts, and decorations, ensuring that the final layout resonates with you on a deep level. This is your opportunity to personalize the design so it aligns with your emotions and intentions for the year.
Once you have a sketch or idea that feels right, use it as a reference for the final painting. You can always make changes to the design later, but this first sketch will help you solidify the composition and start planning the color palette and other artistic elements that will bring your vision to life. Sketching multiple variations of your word and layout is a great way to avoid committing to one idea too early. The more you explore, the clearer your final design will become.
When sketching your word, it’s essential to consider how it will feel when you see it daily. The layout should inspire you and capture the essence of the word’s meaning. You’ll be coming back to this design regularly, so it should feel like a constant source of motivation and strength as you move through the year. The visual layout will help ensure that your chosen word continues to resonate with you and influence your mindset throughout the months ahead. Keep the process light and fluid—let your creativity flow and see where it takes you.
Step 3: Prepare Your Surface
Now that you’ve chosen the perfect layout and have refined your word's design, it’s time to prepare your surface for painting. This crucial step ensures that your artwork comes out as envisioned, and it’s essential to select the right materials to guarantee a high-quality finish. Whether you’re working with canvas, watercolor paper, or even unconventional surfaces like wood or glass, proper preparation is key to achieving the desired results.
When choosing a surface, it’s important to think about the type of paint you’re using and the weight of the paper or material. If you’re using acrylic paint, it’s a good idea to pick a sturdy, thick paper or canvas that can support the layers of paint without buckling or warping. Acrylic paper is particularly well-suited for this, as it is designed to handle the heavy texture of acrylics, preventing the paper from becoming too soft or soggy. The texture of the surface can also affect how the paint adheres, so it’s important to choose something that complements your technique.
If you’re working with a canvas, make sure that it is properly primed. Canvas typically comes either pre-primed or unprimed. If it is unprimed, you’ll need to apply a coat of gesso to seal the canvas and create a smooth, absorbent surface for the paint. This primer helps the paint adhere better and prevents it from soaking into the fabric, which could distort the color. If your canvas is already pre-primed, you can skip this step, but it’s always a good idea to check if the canvas feels smooth and ready to go.
For paper, whether you’re using watercolor or mixed media paper, you’ll want to ensure it is thick enough to withstand layers of acrylic paint. Watercolor paper, while excellent for watercolor painting, can be prone to buckling if too much water is added, so it’s crucial to use a heavyweight paper, such as 300gsm or higher, to avoid damage. If you plan on using a lot of water in your background wash, mixed media paper might be a better option since it holds up well under both wet and dry techniques.
When working with unconventional surfaces, such as glass or wood, the preparation process will differ slightly. Glass surfaces can be tricky because paint may not adhere as well, so you’ll need to use a special medium like a bonding primer designed for glass. For wood, sanding the surface smooth is important to ensure a clean base, and if the wood has not been sealed, you might want to apply a layer of gesso or acrylic primer. Cleaning these surfaces thoroughly before starting is vital to remove any dust or oils that could prevent the paint from sticking.
Once your surface is clean, primed (if necessary), and free from any imperfections, you can start the painting process. Take a moment to assess your work area. Ensure you have a clean, flat surface to work on and that the space is free from distractions. Proper lighting is also crucial, as it allows you to see your work clearly, especially when you’re applying the finer details of your design. Now, you’re ready to start painting with confidence, knowing that the foundation for your artwork is solid.
Step 4: Create a Background Wash
With your surface prepped and ready, the next step is to set the mood for your word through the background wash. This technique is essential for building the initial layers of your piece and laying the foundation for the focus of your artwork—the word itself. The background wash will provide visual depth and texture, creating an atmospheric feel that will enhance the meaning of your chosen word. This step is all about creating the right tone and vibe for your artwork, so it’s important to select a color palette that complements the energy of your word.
Start by selecting a color that resonates with the emotion or concept your word embodies. For instance, if your word is “peace,” a gentle blue or soft green could reflect the calmness and serenity you want to evoke. If you’ve chosen “creativity,” consider vibrant hues like rich purples, oranges, or yellows to express energy and inspiration. Similarly, if your word represents a sense of groundedness or stability, earthy tones like browns and greens would be fitting.
To create the background wash, dilute your acrylic paint with water to achieve a thin, translucent consistency. This process will give the paint a fluid, almost watercolor-like effect, allowing the colors to blend seamlessly into each other. Instead of using a heavy hand to cover the surface with one solid color, focus on creating subtle gradients and transitions between light and dark areas. The goal here is to infuse the background with a dynamic range of hues and textures that will complement the word’s form and meaning.
Begin by applying the watered-down paint to the surface in light, sweeping strokes. Work from one side of the canvas or paper, allowing the color to flow and create natural variations in hue. Don't be afraid to let the water interact with the paint; sometimes, droplets of water can create lovely, organic patterns that enhance the overall visual interest. You may even decide to add a few splashes of color by dripping paint onto the surface and letting it naturally diffuse, creating a more abstract, free-flowing background.
As you apply the wash, think about how the variations in color can guide the viewer’s eye. Light areas can create an inviting, soft space for the word to stand out, while darker sections can provide a sense of contrast, depth, and mystery. If your word represents something that grows or expands, you might want to emphasize these variations with the colors of the wash, allowing the paint to stretch outward, mimicking the growth process.
It’s important to give yourself the freedom to experiment during this step. If you feel like the background is too uniform or not vibrant enough, go back and add more layers of paint, adjusting the intensity of the colors as needed. Once you're satisfied with the background, step back and observe the overall effect. The goal is to create a harmonious backdrop that will let your word shine while still contributing to the emotional depth of the piece.
After you’ve achieved the desired effect, it’s crucial to allow the background wash to dry completely before moving on to the next step. Acrylic paint dries relatively quickly, but you can use a hairdryer on a low setting to speed up the drying process. Just be cautious not to overheat the surface, as this could cause the paint to bubble or crack. Once the background is completely dry, you can proceed with outlining and painting your word, knowing that the stage is set for it to take center stage in your artwork.
Step 5: Sketch Your Word
After ensuring that the background is completely dry and has settled into the desired effect, it’s time to begin sketching your word onto the surface. This is a crucial step, as it forms the backbone of your final artwork. Using a light pencil, carefully outline your chosen word, making sure to reference the layout you created in Step 2. The sketch is your guide, so take your time to position each letter in the exact space where you want it to appear, ensuring alignment and balance across the entire design.
The key to a successful sketch is patience and attention to detail. The more time you spend refining the shape of each letter, the more satisfying the final result will be. As you sketch, make sure that the spacing between the letters feels comfortable and balanced. It’s easy to get too focused on one part of the word, but be sure to step back periodically and view the entire design as a whole. This will allow you to adjust the proportions or spacing if something looks off.
If you’re looking to add flourishes, borders, or other decorative elements around the word, now is the perfect time to plan them out. Adding flourishes can enhance the overall aesthetic of your word and help convey its meaning more vividly. For instance, if your word is “growth,” adding delicate leaves or vines around the letters will reinforce the idea of expansion and nature. If your word is “dream,” consider adding soft clouds or stars to create a whimsical and imaginative feel. These embellishments should complement the word without overpowering it, ensuring that the word itself remains the focal point of the piece.
When sketching flourishes or borders, think about how they interact with the word. Do the flourishes loop around the letters, or do they emerge from them? You might also want to consider the direction of the design. Should the flourishes grow upward or outward? These additional design elements should flow naturally from the word, as if they are extensions of the word’s meaning. Keep in mind that while you’re sketching, these elements are just a guide, and you’ll be adding color and texture later to bring them to life.
It’s important to keep your pencil marks light, as these will be covered by paint in later steps. Light pencil lines are easier to erase and adjust, giving you the flexibility to make changes if needed. Additionally, if you make any mistakes during this step, it’s much easier to erase light lines than heavy ones. Don’t worry if you don’t get it perfect on the first try. Take your time and make adjustments until everything feels right.
Remember that the sketch doesn’t need to be perfect at this stage, as it’s only a rough outline. The beauty of this process is that you can always go back and adjust once you start painting, and even erase if something doesn’t feel quite right. Once you’re satisfied with your sketch, step back and take a moment to assess how it looks in relation to the background wash. The goal is to make sure that the word stands out clearly but harmoniously against the background, ensuring that it’s both legible and visually appealing.
Once you’re happy with the layout and design, it’s time to proceed to the next step. Be sure that the background is completely dry before you begin sketching. Otherwise, the pencil marks might smudge, and you might inadvertently disturb the texture you worked so hard to create. Ensuring your background is dry not only prevents smudging but also helps create a solid foundation for the sketch to sit comfortably atop.
Step 6: Paint the Letters
With your word sketched onto the surface, it’s time to begin the most exciting part of the process: painting the letters. This step is where your vision begins to come to life. Start by selecting the base color for your word. Depending on your word’s meaning, this color will serve as the foundation for the entire piece. For example, if your word is “hope,” you might choose a light, uplifting color like yellow or soft orange. If your word is “strength,” consider using bold, powerful colors like red or deep purple to convey the sense of fortitude and resilience.
Using a round brush, begin painting each letter, applying the base color carefully and evenly. A round brush is ideal for this part because it allows for both precision and control. Start with one letter at a time, making sure each stroke is deliberate and smooth. Be mindful of the edges of the letters, as clean lines will give your word a polished and professional look. As you paint, remember to work slowly and take your time to avoid rushing. Precision is key to ensuring that each letter stands out crisply against the background wash.
If you’re aiming for a more detailed and refined look, use a smaller round brush to carefully paint the finer details of the letters. This is particularly important if your letters have intricate shapes or curves that require more attention. The smaller brush will allow you to fill in small spaces and provide more control, especially for delicate or detailed portions of the word.
Once you’ve painted the basic structure of the word, consider adding depth and dimension to the letters. Acrylic paint offers the flexibility to blend shades, which can help create a more dynamic effect. To add depth, simply mix a darker version of your base color and apply it to one side or bottom of the letters, creating a shadow effect. This shadowing technique gives the letters a three-dimensional appearance, making them pop off the page or canvas.
If you want to enhance the visual appeal of your word even further, consider using additional materials such as gold leaf, gilding wax, or gold paint pens. Gold accents are an excellent way to add sophistication and elegance to your artwork. The reflective properties of gold will make your word shine and stand out, creating an eye-catching focal point. Gold leaf, in particular, can create a luxurious and textured effect, making the word feel more dynamic and captivating.
To apply gold leaf, start by using a glue or adhesive designed specifically for gold leaf. Carefully apply the glue to areas of the letters where you want the gold to adhere, and then gently press the gold leaf onto these sections. The gold leaf will naturally adhere to the glue and create an intricate, shimmering effect. If you’re using gold paint or gilding wax, simply apply it over the areas where you want the gold accents to appear. Gold paint pens are also a great option for finer details, as they provide precision and control while adding a metallic shine.
The addition of gold or metallic highlights not only elevates the visual appeal of your word but also adds layers of meaning. Gold, for example, can symbolize wealth, wisdom, or enlightenment, making it the perfect choice for words like “abundance,” “knowledge,” or “success.”
Once you’ve completed the base color and metallic accents, step back and evaluate the overall composition of your piece. Ensure that the word feels balanced and integrated into the background, with the gold accents providing a harmonious contrast. If necessary, you can go back and add more paint, adjust the highlights, or even soften areas that seem too bold. The goal is to create a cohesive, visually appealing piece that accurately represents your chosen word and its meaning.
Step 7: Final Touches and Embellishments
To complete your painting, it’s time to add some final embellishments. These small touches will elevate your work and make it feel even more personalized. Consider adding accents like stars, dots, or swirls around the word to create movement and flow. If your word is related to nature, like “growth,” you might want to include leaves, vines, or flowers. If it’s “dream,” soft cloud-like shapes or delicate stars could work beautifully.
I personally like to add swirling, flowing shapes around the word to make it appear as though the word itself is radiating energy. This technique helps keep the word as the focal point while making the overall composition feel dynamic and cohesive.
Once your embellishments are complete, step back and take in the full piece. This word is not just a painting—it’s a visual representation of your intentions for the year ahead, a tangible reminder of the energy and mindset you want to embody in the months to come.
With these steps, you’ll create a stunning, meaningful piece of art that encapsulates your word of the year. Whether you hang it in your home or keep it on your desk, it will serve as a constant reminder of your goals and dreams, keeping you aligned with your intentions and aspirations throughout the entire year.
Final Thoughts
As you complete your painting and step back to admire the visual representation of your chosen word, take a moment to reflect on the journey you've embarked upon. Creating art from a single word is more than just a creative exercise; it’s a powerful act of setting intentions and manifesting your goals. By transforming your word of the year into a physical piece of art, you create a tangible reminder of what you want to prioritize, nurture, and cultivate in the months ahead.
Art is not just about aesthetics—it's a reflection of your inner world and how you choose to interact with your surroundings. When you look at your word, whether it’s hanging on your wall or sitting on your desk, it should inspire you to take consistent actions aligned with the feelings and goals you have for the year. It serves as a daily prompt to guide your thoughts and behaviors, subtly reminding you of the energies you want to embody, whether it's peace, creativity, growth, or courage.
The process of choosing a word, brainstorming its meaning, and visually expressing it is a deeply introspective act. It allows you to connect with what truly matters to you, away from the distractions and external pressures that can cloud your focus. By consciously selecting a word that aligns with your values, you're investing in yourself and your personal growth, without the stress and pressure often associated with traditional resolutions.
As the year progresses, you may find that your word evolves, or you may discover new layers of meaning within it as you apply it to different aspects of your life. That’s the beauty of choosing a word for the year—it’s flexible, dynamic, and can adapt with you as you grow.
In the end, the real value lies not in the artwork itself, but in the commitment and intention you infuse into the process. Your word becomes a reflection of your vision for the year, a visual anchor that helps guide you through challenges, successes, and everything in between. So, let your word inspire you each day, reminding you of what truly matters, and helping you stay aligned with your deepest desires.
