• Free

BRAVE START

  • Course
  • 4 Lessons

Brave Start is your invitation back to creativity. In four encouraging videos, I’ll help you let go of perfection and make your first mark, reconnect with your creativity—no art degree required—create a painting practice that fits into your real life, and learn to show up for yourself and your art. This isn’t about doing it perfectly. It’s about being brave enough to begin.

Course Preview

What You'll Create in the Free Course

Four bite-sized lessons to spark your creativity, build confidence, and help you start making art—no perfection required.

Start with what you already have. Learn how to gather simple supplies, organize your space, and set yourself up so nothing gets in the way of your creativity.

You don't have to be an artist to begin! Explore the magic of just two colors and white. We'll play with color swatches and break free from expectations through joyful experimentation.

Make your first abstract painting without fear. With a simple color palette, you’ll explore bold and quiet marks, playful lines, and the power of trusting your instincts.

Learn how to build an art practice that fits your life. We’ll create a handmade viewfinder, start a personal color journal, and carve out space for creativity and soul-care.

Why Learn From Me?

Meet your instructor Katie O'Rourke.

You don’t need to call yourself an artist to feel the deep inner pull to create.
That’s who I teach—those ready to follow that creative spark and begin.

I’ve spent over 3 decades making art, and the past 7 years helping others reconnect with their creativity. My approach is gentle, encouraging, and all about process—not perfection.

Whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or finding your way back to it, I’m here to help you explore, experiment, and enjoy making art that feels like you.

***** Why Students Keep Coming Back!

"Katie's classes aren’t about achieving perfection or selling your art. They’re about discovering and enjoying the creative process, no matter your skill level. If you’ve ever been curious about acrylics, color, or simply tapping into your creative side, I cannot recommend Katie’s classes enough. You will leave inspired, confident, and eager to create".

Alexandra N.

"Katie’s classes are great! She is an excellent teacher who helps me really understand color, abstract art, mark making and acrylic technique in a very joyful and creative way. Her classes help loosen my approach so that I enjoy painting more. I highly recommend her!"

Susan G.

"I absolutely recommend Katie's classes! They are warm, welcoming, no-pressure, and fun. We all came with insecurities about our artistic skills, and in no time, we were like little kids playing, laughing and marveling at our own creations! It was hugely freeing and empowering. Thank you Katie!"

Alex A.

Begin Brave Start

Ready to continue your painting practice?

Nighttime Sketchbook is for you!

Feeling stuck in the scroll?
If your evenings are spent with too much TV or phone time, you're not alone. But what if those quiet hours became the most creative, nourishing part of your day?

It’s time to show up for yourself—and your art.

The Nighttime Sketchbook is a gentle invitation to put down your phone, pick up a brush or pen, and reconnect with your creativity. This calming evening practice will help you unwind, soothe your nervous system, and maybe even sleep better.

Let’s build a new habit together—one that’s just for you.

  • $39

Nighttime Sketchbook

  • Course
  • 5 Lessons

A calming creative ritual to end your day. In this three-part video series, you’ll create your own sketchbook using expressive watercolor, pencil, and marker techniques. Designed as an evening ritual, this course helps you unwind, reconnect, and gently show up for your art. Includes a bonus video of me painting in my own sketchbook to inspire your practice.