It’s been a while since I’ve reflected on my watercolor journey, but if these past few years have taught me anything, it’s to remember the small and big moments and share them with others.
I always thought an artist was someone who went to art school, exhibited in a gallery or a museum, or got paid for their work. And while all of that is technically true, being an artist is simply about using art tools to express yourself.
If that’s you… then you’re an artist. And so am I.
But why watercolor, and why choose to teach people? As cheesy as it sounds, I like to think watercolor chose me.
How did my watercolor journey start?
It started in May of 2016. My grandmother had passed away, and I wasn’t able to see her go. It was first member of my immediate family to pass away, and I didn’t know how to grieve. I didn’t have a close relationship with her in my adult years because of the language barrier and the fact that she lived in Korea while I in the US. But I knew that she was a woman of faith, served others, and loved to paint with watercolors.
To deal with my grief, I took up analog journaling again. But I wanted something more creative so that I could express myself. That’s how I came across bullet journaling. And from there, I saw lots of journalers using calligraphy and watercolors.
It wasn’t long until I started to explore those skills, too. Soon, I was buying new supplies, getting lost in learning something new, and I taught myself through countless videos and courses.
I could’ve learned other art media like acrylics or digital. But I think watercolors was the most relevant because of my grandmother.
I had asked my dad to send me some photos of her work, and I tried to emulate it because it looked a lot like loose florals.
How I got into teaching
I’ve always wanted to teach. I considered teaching in a traditional school, but didn’t like the constraints and “teach to the test” mentality. I went to graduate school for museum education because informal education appealed to me.
I’ve been in some kind of teaching role since 2010. But until 2017, I had never thought about teaching online.
My watercolor journey was shared on social media, mainly Instagram. And it just felt natural for me to share tips and tricks about how I painted. There were lots of great artists out there, but they weren’t really sharing about their process. Since I was obsessed with loose florals, all of my posts were about that.
I published my first e-book in July 2017 and established a business license that same month.
I was spending 3-4 hours a day after work pouring myself into watercolor. And by September 2017, I launched my first Skillshare class.
Six months later, I published two more classes and became a Top Teacher.
What am I up to now?
Since 2017, I’ve experimented a lot as an artist and in my business. Through all of my ventures, I’ve realized that I’ve always enjoyed teaching. And this year I’m more excited than ever to really concentrate on that.
That’s why I’m releasing mini video courses in The Watercolor Garden. I want to help budding watercolor enthusiasts like you to find your confidence as an artist and in life.
Why I’m sharing about my watercolor journey
I share my story not to brag about what’s happened in my life. But to experience the joy of watercolor with you. Art and watercolor has helped me navigate through some of the darkest periods of my life.
I know watercolors can help you find peace, beauty, and inspiration. And what better place to do that than a garden (even if it is a virtual space)?
So let me walk that journey with you. Whether you just started watercolor, or you’re a bit further along. You’re not alone. Let’s do it together.
Thanks for reading. I hope to learn more about your watercolor journey. Leave a comment here or get in touch with me.
