The “Watermelon Blue: Re-Thinking Your Relationship with Colour” book Launch at The Old Witta School
What a magical afternoon the “Watermelon Blue–Re-Thinking Your Relationship with Colour” book launch was at the beautiful Old Witta School a few Sundays ago. After a drippy, wet morning, the sun came out just as the launch opened. 118 friends, family and fans showed up and I was so pleased! The champagne & punch was flowing, and the food table was loaded with chocolate goodies, treats, sandwiches, and finger foods. The place was buzzing with creative energy and I couldn’t have asked for a more joyful way to send this book out into the world.
Photo Above: The Old Witta School. To learn about the history of this iconic school, go here: https://www.oldwittaschoolcommunitycentre.com/history
But let me share a little of the journey that brought this, my second book, “Watermelon Blue: Re-Thinking Your Relationship with Colour” to life.
My interest in writing this book began a few years ago, during the long, quiet months of the COVID lock downs. With more time than usual, I dove deep into my love of colour. I read over 40 books on the subject, filled folders with notes and ideas, and then disappointingly, hit a wall. I thought, “I have nothing new to say on the subject of colour” as so much has already been written about and covered in those many books I read on the subject. So, I “put a pin” in the idea, and moved on, knowing I still wanted to write another book.
Above photo: Colourful feast for the eyes!
Months later, while re-reading one of those books on colour, the overriding idea of rules, requirements, regulations struck a cord with me and that’s when it clicked. I didn’t want to write another book about colour theory—I wanted to write about breaking the rules. “Watermelon Blue” became just that: a joyful, creative exploration of colour with freedom at its core.
Then life shifted again when I went back to university, graduating in May of this year after 2.5 years of intense study. For that time, the book sat quietly in the background. But I never gave up on it, adding bits here and there. Gradually chapters and content took form and I really started to get excited. This past Christmas with a 6 week break between University studies, I went all in, writing, editing, polishing. The result is a vibrant 201-page book filled with stories, artist profiles, creative prompts, and colourful inspiration.
Above photo: Vivid, rainbow chalk-Fragments of colour
But back to the launch. Set against the rustic charm of the Old Witta School, it brought together a beautiful mix of friends, supporters, and fellow creatives. Seeing people flip through the pages, connect with the ideas, and share their own colour stories filled my heart.
Above photo: Signing the first book sold!
Above photo: Colour & texture-Natures best friends!
The charismatic, charming Jill Chivers, (who wrote the introduction to the book), was the MC, guiding the afternoon with warmth, wit, and a flow that kept everyone engaged. I was thrilled the mayor of the Sunshine Coast, the honourable Rosanna Natoli attended, making important and memorable remarks not only about the book, but the thriving and creative community of Maleny. (I am such a “girl fan” of this remarkable woman, who does great work for our community with passion, dedication, and a genuine heart.)
Above photo: Jill, myself and Mayor Natoli
Above photo: Blue & Green a match made in heaven!
Four of the 6 artists featured in Chapter 9 of the book were in attendance and added so much warmth and depth to the launch. Shannon Garson, Peter Hudson, Tina Cooper, and Barbara Nye—look them up if you want to be awed and inspired. The other two artists, who live outside Australia, were also represented with examples of their work, and very much there in spirit.
Photo Above: Artists & myself at launch.
Above photo: Vibrant flow of colour and movement.
Watermelon Blue is for artists, designers, makers, and anyone drawn to colour or who wants to include more colour into their lives. It’s an invitation to colour outside the lines, trust your instincts, and live more creatively.
Order your copy here: https://www.reneeblackwelldesign.com/product/just-released-my-new-book-watermelon-blue-re-thinking-your-relationship-with-colour-copy-2/
Pictured below, my first book “Adornment from the Soul” which I wrote over 7 years ago and was a “Beverly Hills Book Awards” winner. Out of print, but is a genuine collectors item!
