![](https://goimagine.com/images/detailed/4657/"Unguarded" - Gouache on Watercolor Paper - 8x8 - _286149136824_1754687537_org.jpeg)
![](https://d1q8o8ch5u48ua.cloudfront.net/images/detailed/4657/"Unguarded" - Gouache on Watercolor Paper - 8x8 - _210469658898_1754687536.jpeg?t=1754687537)
![](https://d1q8o8ch5u48ua.cloudfront.net/images/detailed/4657/"Unguarded" Gouache Portrait in Modern Home Settin_981894207681_1754687536.jpeg?t=1754687536)
![](https://d1q8o8ch5u48ua.cloudfront.net/images/detailed/4657/"Unguarded" - Gouache on Watercolor Paper - 8x8 - _422938707837_1754687536.jpeg?t=1754687536)
![](https://d1q8o8ch5u48ua.cloudfront.net/images/detailed/4657/"Unguarded" - Gouache on Watercolor Paper - 8x8 - _49922124643_1754687536.jpeg?t=1754687536)
![](https://d1q8o8ch5u48ua.cloudfront.net/images/thumbnails/75/75/detailed/4657/"Unguarded" - Gouache on Watercolor Paper - 8x8 - _286149136824_1754687537_org.jpeg?t=1754687557)
![](https://d1q8o8ch5u48ua.cloudfront.net/images/thumbnails/75/75/detailed/4657/"Unguarded" - Gouache on Watercolor Paper - 8x8 - _210469658898_1754687536.jpeg?t=1754687560)
![](https://d1q8o8ch5u48ua.cloudfront.net/images/thumbnails/75/75/detailed/4657/"Unguarded" Gouache Portrait in Modern Home Settin_981894207681_1754687536.jpeg?t=1754687564)
![](https://d1q8o8ch5u48ua.cloudfront.net/images/thumbnails/75/75/detailed/4657/"Unguarded" - Gouache on Watercolor Paper - 8x8 - _422938707837_1754687536.jpeg?t=1754687568)
![](https://d1q8o8ch5u48ua.cloudfront.net/images/thumbnails/75/75/detailed/4657/"Unguarded" - Gouache on Watercolor Paper - 8x8 - _49922124643_1754687536.jpeg?t=1754687572)
About this Product
This expressive portrait captures a moment of raw vulnerability and strength. Painted with vibrant gouache on quality watercolor paper, "Unguarded" explores the interplay of bold turquoise and warm flesh tones that dance across the subject's face.
I created this piece as part of my ongoing study of facial structure and light - something I'm constantly working to understand better in my art. There's something honest about working with gouache that I love - you can't really go back and overthink things. What you put down is what you get, and that immediacy comes through in the final piece.
The painting itself measures 8x8 inches with a white border extending to the full paper size of 8.5x8.5 inches. This intimate format feels perfect for a cozy reading nook or bedroom. The colors would work beautifully with both warm and cool interior palettes, bringing life and personality to any space.
This original painting comes unframed and has been sealed with a protective wax layer to preserve the vibrant colors and ensure longevity. Ready to be styled however speaks to you.
Framing suggestions: This piece would look stunning in a simple black or white frame with a mat, or try a natural wood frame to complement the warm tones. Standard 11x11 or 12x12 frames with mats work perfectly, or go matless in a 8x8 frame for a more contemporary look.
Art by Natalie Bella
Meet the Maker
Hi, I'm Natalie! I create contemporary oil and mixed media paintings that celebrate the gentle strength found in nature and feminine grace.
Working from my home studio in Nevada, I'm constantly inspired by the golden light of the desert and our breathtaking mountain views. I'm drawn to vibrant florals, ethereal light, and those quiet moments where beauty whispers rather than shouts.
My smaller studies available here capture these intimate moments of discovery. They're perfect for creating peaceful corners in your home or starting an art collection that grows with you. I love knowing these paintings will bring a touch of natural beauty and calm into your daily life.
When I'm not painting, you'll find me exploring the desert landscape or sharing the creative process with fellow art lovers. I believe art should feel like a gentle friend - something that makes you pause, breathe deeper, and remember the beauty that surrounds us every day.
Visit my website https://artbynataliebella.com/ to explore my complete art collections and read my blog where I document my artist process, share inspiration from my Nevada studio, and connect with fellow art lovers.
How it’s Made
This portrait was painted with high-quality gouache paints on cold-pressed watercolor paper. I work wet-into-wet in some areas to create soft transitions, while using drier brush techniques for the more defined features. The process begins with loose washes of color to establish the overall mood, then I build up layers of opacity that gouache is known for.
Each color is mixed fresh on my palette - no tube colors straight from the container. The skin tones are built from a complex mix of warm and cool notes, while the background uses bold, gestural strokes to create energy and movement around the subject's stillness.
The entire piece was completed in about two hours of focused work, capturing that sense of immediacy and honesty that comes from not overthinking the process.
Once dry, I sealed the artwork with a protective wax layer to preserve the colors and protect against moisture and UV damage.
Shop Policies
Returns & Exchanges Due to the original nature of my artwork, I don't accept returns or exchanges. Each piece is carefully created and photographed to accurately represent colors and details.
Quality Guarantee Your satisfaction matters to me. If there's an issue with your artwork upon arrival - damage during shipping, significant color variation from photos, or any quality concerns - please contact me within 48 hours of delivery. I'll work with you to make it right.
Shipping & Handling All artwork is carefully packaged to ensure safe arrival. I ship within 5 business days of purchase and provide tracking information once your piece is on its way.
Questions Have questions about a piece or want to see additional photos? I'm happy to help! Feel free to message me before purchasing.