Up until a couple of years ago, I used to offer watercolour house and door illustrations, but then I stopped. It wasn’t because I didn’t like the illustrations anymore. I still loved them, in a way. But… I also didn’t. *Oh dear Kerri, that’s not a confusing statement in the slightest, is it?!* Let me explain…
Watercolour house and door illustrations take time and care to create. And, as someone who easily falls into the perfectionism trap, the detailed and very layered style I use to use, often made me quite stressed. For me, creativity is all about the joy. So, regularly feeling stressed wasn’t ideal – and over time it even began to impact my health.
I ended up taking a break from creating any and all artwork. But that soon felt wrong. Creativity is part of me… I didn’t just want to create, I HAD to create.
In early 2024, I allowed myself time to play with art – space to explore and develop my style, and try different techniques. I discovered a love of abstracts, and not only the freedom it gives my creativity but also the escapism it gives my mind. Suddenly, creating artwork wasn’t stressful again. It was back to being all about the joy.
Throughout 2024 and 2025, I continued to play and have fun with painting. I also continued to juggle some health conditions. And, by the end of last year (2025), I took another break. Not because creating art was stressful, but because I thought I needed to prioritise my time and health in other ways.
But (and I’m sure you’ll see the pattern here), I very quickly realised it wasn’t the right decision for me. Creativity is so important for my wellbeing, and I need it to be part of my day-to-day life.
For the first half of this year (2026), I went back into play mode. And, to be honest, I want to try to never leave it again! I’ve enjoyed just seeing what I can create, trying different techniques, and embracing the process. Sometimes the results aren’t what I expect, but other times they’re even better than I could have imagined. Either way, it feels good. And that’s the whole point.
I began thinking about those house and door illustrations I used to create, and wondered if there was a way I could paint them again but using a more relaxed, feel-good, less ‘perfect’ style. Something I could enjoy, that wouldn’t be stressful.
And it turns out, yes, I can. It took a little while to find what works well, but I now have two styles I enjoy creating. Ink and watercolour – which is quite close to my old style but feels more relaxed and loose – and a blue delft inspired style that feels stylish but feel-good.
My love of abstracts isn’t going anywhere, but lifting some (self-imposed) restrictions, and letting myself have fun with art, means I can now explore all of the different subjects that bring me joy. From doors to flowers, and from houses to bicycles. I’m not setting any rules anymore. If it brings me (and hopefully you) joy, it’s in!
If you would like to commission your own watercolour house or door illustration, I’ve made it easy to order commissions through my online shop.
Each illustration still takes time and care to create so, not wanting to make the same mistakes I did before, I will only be releasing a small number of commission spaces at any one time. That way I can enjoy the process, allow the pieces to feel relaxed and joyful, and, ultimately, create better illustrations for you.
I hope I get to create a house or door illustration for you one day soon!
P.S. If the commission spaces show as ‘sold out’, please feel free to get in touch to find out when new spaces will be available.