About me
I have always been drawn to the stories that live beneath the surface of ordinary moments. A weathered face, the posture of a figure, an animal caught in a quiet moment, or sunlight falling across a familiar scene can hold an entire history. My work begins with that connection—the moment when I see something that makes me stop, look again, and feel that there is a story worth telling.
Watercolor is my primary medium because of its transparency, luminosity, and unpredictability. I love the balance it requires between intention and surrender. I can guide the water and pigment, but I cannot completely control them, and I don't want to. Some of the most beautiful passages in watercolor happen when the medium is allowed to participate in the painting. I use transparent washes, expressive edges, rich color, texture, and carefully developed values to create work that is realistic without becoming merely photographic.
My years as a professional photographer profoundly shaped the way I see. Photography taught me to recognize light, composition, gesture, and the importance of a fleeting moment. More than two decades of living abroad also exposed me to different cultures, landscapes, faces, and ways of life. Those experiences continue to influence both the subjects I choose and the stories I want my paintings to tell.
Although my work is representational, perfect reproduction is never my goal. I want the viewer to feel something beyond technical accuracy. I am particularly interested in character—the evidence of a life lived, whether I find it in the wrinkles of an elderly face, the expression of a child, the dignity of an animal, or the worn surfaces of an everyday object.
I often think of light as another character in my paintings. It reveals what matters, creates atmosphere, and directs the emotional focus of the work.
Ultimately, I paint what moves me. I want my paintings to invite the viewer to linger, discover something familiar, and perhaps create a story of their own. If someone stops in front of one of my paintings and feels curiosity, tenderness, nostalgia, humor, or a quiet connection to the subject, then the painting has accomplished what I hoped it would.
Our collections
Explore a diverse range of watercolors, from serene landscapes to captivating portraits, each crafted with a unique touch. Our collections cater to art collectors, gift seekers, and those who appreciate fine art.
Watercolor paintings
Dive into our primary collection featuring a broad spectrum of subjects and styles.
Gallery of recent paintings
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Gallery 2 of recent works
Discover even more of Dana's current artistic journey and unique expressions.
More watercolors
Delve deeper into extensive archives of beautiful and inspiring watercolor art.
About Dana Wiggins Thompson
Dana Wiggins Thompson is an award-winning watercolor artist and instructor whose work is recognized for its expressive realism, luminous color, and strong sense of story. Painting in watercolor since 1996, Dana is especially drawn to subjects with character and emotional presence—from weathered faces and quiet human moments to animals, landscapes, and the unexpected beauty found in everyday life.
Her work has earned recognition in national and international exhibitions and competitions. Dana is a Signature Member of the National Watercolor Society (NWS), International Watercolor International Watercolor (WIW), Georgia Watercolor Society (GWS), and Southern Watercolor Society (SWS), and is an Associate with Distinction with American Women Artists (AWA).
Among her recent honors, Dana's work was accepted into the 2026 National Watercolor Society International Exhibition and the 98th Grand National Exhibition of the American Artists Professional League at the historic Salmagundi Club in New York City. She was named one of Artists Magazine's Top 10 Artists Over 60 and was the Grand Prize winner of the 2025 Golden Brush International Competition.
Her other honors include Second Place in the American Watercolor Society Associate Members Exhibition, Second Place in Northwest Watercolor Society's Waterworks Exhibition, Second Place in the American Watercolor Exhibition, and the People's Choice Award in the North American Watercolor International Exhibition. Her work has also received awards from Women in Watercolor, the Georgia Watercolor Society, Southern Watercolor Society, Illinois Watercolor Society, and other juried exhibitions.
Dana's paintings have been published in Splash 25 and featured in The Art of Watercolour and other art publications.
Before devoting herself extensively to painting, Dana spent 27 years as a professional photographer. Her photography appeared in publications and collections around the world, including National Wildlife Magazine, international travel and horticultural publications, and Getty Images Middle East. More than two decades spent living abroad—including years in Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi—helped shape the way she sees people, culture, light, and place and continues to influence her artistic perspective today.
Teaching is an important part of Dana's artistic life. She has taught watercolor through her private studio as well as Oconee Fall Line Technical College, Georgia College, Allied Arts, and Hobby Lobby. Her classes welcome artists at different experience levels and focus not simply on copying a demonstration, but on understanding watercolor—color, value, composition, edges, washes, texture, and the confidence to develop an individual artistic voice.
Dana lives and paints in Milledgeville, Georgia, where she continues to teach, exhibit, and pursue the unpredictable beauty of transparent watercolor.
For Dana, the goal is not simply to paint what something looks like. It is to capture the light, character, memory, and story that make a subject worth remembering.
Bringing visions to life
I pride myself on my adaptability and commitment to excellence in every watercolor creation. Explore what I have to offer and how my art can bring beauty and inspiration into your world.
"Dana's watercolors are simply breathtaking. Each piece feels alive and brings such a calming presence to my home. A truly professional artist!"
Jessica L.
"I purchased a piece as a gift, and it was received with such joy. The quality and beauty of Dana's art are unmatched. Highly recommend!"
Mark T.
"The vibrant colors and intricate details in Dana's work are captivating. It's a joy to browse her galleries and I look forward to adding more of her art to my collection."
Sarah P.
Your journey into art begins here
This is where our journey begins. Get to know my business and what I do, and how I'm committed to quality and great service. Join me as I grow and succeed together. I'm glad you're here to be a part of my story.
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Location
756 Stembridge Rd SE
31061 Milledgeville