Making Space for Ugly Art: Sheree Burlington (Episode 06)

Written ByCJLANTIER

9 September, 2025

Today, I’m talking with Sheree Burlington, a mixed media artist with a real passion for gel printing. She shares how she first got started, how her style has grown and changed over time, and how running a YouTube channel has actually fueled her creativity. We also get into the importance of community, how personal loss has shaped her art, and the advice she has for anyone just starting out. What I love most is how open and honest she is—her reflections really show just how powerful art can be, not only in transforming our own lives but also in bringing us together.

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Reach Out:

Resources Mentioned:

Froyle Davies YouTube

Rex Ray

Mark Hearld

Blending Brushes

Sheree’s Links:

YouTube

Sheree’s First YouTube Video

Website

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Sheree Burlington

03:00 The Journey into Gel Printing

05:55 Artistic Evolution and Style

08:47 Tools and Materials for Gel Printing

11:48 Finding Inspiration in Art

14:37 Community and Artistic Growth

17:44 The Impact of YouTube on Creativity

20:29 The Role of Loss in Artistic Expression

23:30 Navigating Grief and Forgiveness

26:43 The Importance of Authenticity in Art

29:31 Advice for Aspiring Gel Printers

32:43 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Insights

35:29 Exploring New Directions in Art

38:25 Sheree’s YouTube Channel and Website

41:26 Final Thoughts and Advice

Key Takeaways:

  • Sheree Burlington is a self-taught mixed media artist from New Hampshire.
  • She began gel printing during the lockdown, finding joy in the process.
  • Botanicals are a go-to for creating beautiful prints.
  • Her artistic style has evolved over time, influenced by various artists.
  • Community plays a crucial role in her creative journey, especially through YouTube.
  • Sheree emphasizes the importance of making ‘ugly art’ as part of the creative process.
  • Her first YouTube video was a cathartic expression of loss and transformation.
  • She encourages aspiring artists to embrace their unique styles and not compare themselves to others.
  • Sheree finds inspiration in art books and the work of other artists.

If you enjoyed this episode, We’d appreciate a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Podchaser.com. This helps other people find the podcast. If you’re into gel printing, please join the Gel Print Enthusiasts group on Facebook. If you’re not on Facebook, follow Beyond the Brayer on Instagram for podcast news and more!

Be sure to tune in next week, as I talk with Drew Steinbrecher. We talk about his creative background, how he got started gel printing, and the upcoming Gel Printers Summit.

Note: Some links may be affiliatel links.

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