Like a lot of us, I started watercolors with simple tutorials.
The first watercolor book and class I ever bought were about loose florals.
And even though I admire loose watercolors very much, there was a problem as almost immediately,
I realized I wanted more out of watercolor.
More depth, more layers, more details and intricacy. More time and fun spent bringing my painting to life.
This way of painting feels so satisfying and soothing, relaxing !

As I became an active member of the watercolor community online, I started paying attention to what everyone else was doing and I let social media trends influence my natural instincts and consume my creativity.

And I started to question my ability to paint with watercolors.
Was my art what watercolor is supposed to look like in the real world ?

You believe what you keep seeing.
For a long time I believed loose florals and expressive paint strokes were the right fit for watercolor.
I tried to force my style into painting looser knowing deep down 
that my true creative self was not only beautiful, but also very valid !

As a detail and realism enthusiast practicing watercolors, have you ever felt it ?
Because you know it. You and I have heard it time and time again.
Watercolor has a mind of its own and too many layers and details can lead to overworking a painting.
At first glance, realism doesn't seem like a great match, even more so for a realism lover who is learning the craft.

After two years of watercolor, I was still asking myself if watercolor was a right fit for my stubborn love for layers, details and refining a painting. And it really held me back.
My confidence suffered but I chose to go for what I enjoyed
and I kept going, observing, studying until ...

I got an opportunity to teach my first in person workshop and show my art around at a local fair.
It was then, far from social media trends, that I realized many people actually enjoy realistic watercolors, and that the only way to grow and flourish as an artist truly was going to be
to give myself permission to create in my own way.

The best part ? It turns out you and I are not alone.
And because the journey was not always easy on me and held my creative growth back for so long,
my mission is to help and encourage other realism lovers use watercolors, with confidence and on their own terms !