This watercolor piece is the very first watercolor landscape I have ever created. I have always enjoyed the softness and beauty of watercolor and I knew that when I planned to start exploring the medium more that I had the perfect photograph to create from. 
 
My kids and I love to visit the Como Zoo in St. Paul, Minnesota. I have always had a bit of a love-hate relationship with zoos, as I really believe in animals as human entertainment. But, I also recognize and appreciate the conservation work that many zoos, including this zoo, do to help protect many endangered species. Along with conservation work for the animals, this zoo is also recognized by the US Fish and Wildlife Service as a designated plant rescue center, which is really awesome!
 
Inside the zoo there is a beautiful little cottage with a waterwheel, surrounded by beautiful flowers. Being who I am, I always stop at this spot to admire how beautiful it is and take more pictures. I am so glad that I do this because this turned out to be one of my favorite pieces of art I have ever created. It just brings me a sort of peace when I look at it. I hope it does the same for you.