About

I'm Sam (otherwise known as SJ), watercolor artist from northern Minnesota. A homeschooling mom of littles, finding time to paint between oatmeal covered shirts, naps and the bedtime shuffle. I started this watercolor journey in 2014 when my college illustration class had a semester long sketchbook project. We had to fill the entire sketchbook and could only use permanent materials; this is where my watercolor journey began. I fell head over heels for the world of urban sketching, did a sketch every day for a year, and now I often travel with a sketchbook in hand. Most of my work is inspired by Minnesota or my love of travel. I like capturing the beautiful north shore scenery, the personality of a sassy seagull, intriguing architecture, and of course...pine trees.

I graduated from MSUM with an art education degree and taught art at an alternative high school for two years. In May of 2018 I resigned from my teaching position to pursue my career as a full-time artist. Since then I've sold my artwork at art fairs, online, and throughout shops in the midwest, including REI, state parks, and the MIA gift shop.

You're seeing my heart on a page through my work, and I'm grateful to share it with you. Whether it's through a bookmark pack, print, or the Happy Mail Club, I hope what you find through my work can bring some joy into your every day! Thanks for supporting my art and stopping by.

-SJ Nielsen