FIVE reasons my art went from bad to good...

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

Don't miss my NEW course The Art Within. In it, we cover watercolor fundamentals, drills, and practice. We also discuss finding your own creative style and how to get into "flow state" for optimal creative mindset. Check it out: www.jennarainey.com/the-art-within // If you want more monthly watercolor tutorials, check out my Patreon! I offer ad-free tutorials, Patreon-exclusive tutorials each month, and live art classes. Check it out here: www.jennarainey.com/patreon

[@TheLindaLWeeks]

Ms. Jenna, you and a number of other folks on KZbin have taken a 68-year-old lady and turned her into a much livelier old lady who has a task she wants to 'master'. Given the time we have on this planet, I want to spend it with art, and lord willing, watercolors and y'all. Thank you. ☮

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

Love this! ❤️❤️❤️

[@lisal8127]

You inspire me. Thank you!

[@yenyandco]

That's awesome! Keep on going! You inspire me to keep going as well. I'm 34 and it's only been maybe a year since i started playing around with watercolors and i hope i can master it too!

[@AnnaHans88]

This is the sweetest comment ever. Also adorable profile pic!

[@Angela-zf8sn]

Sounds awesome 🤗🌹🌻🌺🌸🌿

[@tearex3919]

Having a second set of eyes, a friend or fellow artist, to talk with you about your art constructively is hugely beneficial. We have tendencies to get stuck and seeing through someone else's eyes can really help get us over a hurdle and on to a higher level.

[@joanncerretani1392]

My favorite part of the journey has been hearing artists like yourself say things like..."keep going, patience, practice, mistakes are teachable moments, fall in love with the process." I am retired and have fallen in love with watercolor painting...I'm determined to continue to "grow" even at my age! Thank you for the encouragement and inspiration! Heappy painting everyone! 🥰

[@thewatercolorclassroom-bec7040]

I agree, no comparing, good quality supplies, training, and I would add, practice. I am amazed at how many of my students get discouraged when theirs doesn't turn out like mine.

[@thistlesandpoppies]

One of my favorite growth moments was, six months ago. I was taking a Zoom watercolor class and the instructor told us that as she was developing her skills she would ask watercolorists what percentage of their paintings turned out good. Fairly consistently they said 3 out of every 10. The instructor said for her it was 3 out of 13 that turned out. It was so freeing to know that all artists have paintings that don’t work, it is part of the creative process. She also said you need those failures to try out new styles and techniques, they’re how you develop your own personal style.

[@tuvoca825]

I have seen van gough paintings that still had pencil marks, were recyucled into newer paintings and reworked and not all turned out. And he was pretty good...

[@lesliedivoll3447]

With experience and successes your standards get higher ... so you’re favorite paintings from the early days may now look embarrassing. My tip is to remember, respect, and nurture the beginner that you must always be if you wish to keep growing. 3 in 10 or 3 in 13 “successful” paintings is much better than 10 in 10 - which would mean you’re stuck in the same old groove.

[@carolinerothenberg3982]

All my paintings look like Jenna's "before" paintings. I've been at it for two years but an now realizing I actually have to study technique and color theory and just bought better supplies!

[@Abbigirl316]

Damn, I was glad to read this comment. It was like u wrote it especially for me. Thank u so much for sharing ur experiences 💖. So appreciated.

[@Abbigirl316]

@@lesliedivoll3447 Ooooh, so very well said 👏 & quite inspirational.

[@TheArtisticBiker]

Dumb as this sounds, the biggest jump for me was creating/finding lists of things to draw and paint. When developing a daily habit of practice, there will ALWAYS come that day where you think nobody wants to see that. You've already painted that. There's nothing interesting to paint or draw... If you skip once or twice, the habit is broken and it'll just as easily become three years as three days. Instead, pull out the list and paint the next thing on the list. Obviously, if you're inspired, paint your inspiration. But on the days that nothing seems interesting, just pull out the list. I keep it on my phone and whenever I see something interesting I'll take a picture or just make a quick note to add it to the list.

[@margaretmitchell7168]

Great idea. Thanks for the spark!!

[@patriciatamayo2656]

Love this recommendation

[@lauriesylvia985]

I just did that. I was in Mexico and took random pictures of things to inspire my work. Your idea of using them as an everyday inspiration is awesome! If you run into a crazy lady photographing a piece of trash at the curb, it may be me, lol

[@IAMKAL1]

I am very VERY new to painting and I struggle with this everyday. You said pull out the list...are you referring to a specific list of just one that you created? I think it would be great idea for someone to put together a list of simple things for new artists/painters to try creating. I’m sure it’s out there already, but if not, it would be cool! Thank you for sharing...I was beginning to feel like maybe I wasn’t meant to be an artist, even if I am in my heart and soul. I always assumed that great artists ALWAYS know what to paint, and then they just do it lol.

[@shhh_itsmegs]

I love this! Thank you so much 🙏🏻🦋

[@rehasana]

I am 47 now. I am not a born artist. It was a deliberate choice. It was mostly for self expression and self healing. I discovered watercolor 5 years ago. I plan to be a best selling artist by 60. Thanks for your tips!

[@f3rzz476]

💪

[@DesiCat789]

Rooting for you ❤️ all good vibes to you! You will achieve it!

[@OrigamiCalm]

Good for you! Good luck! :)

[@education461]

There is not such a thing! Be careful with setting up goals that are meaningless to your career or your personal growth. No artist is the best selling artist in any media and neither that means anything. Just compare your own progress with how you started not with sales or the success of others.

[@ellagnourt9591]

Do you have an Instagram account for your work? I'd love to subscribe and support!

[@jspohl]

Starting to meditate and spirituality has been huge for me because I’ll never listen to a negative voice. 💖🧘‍♀️🌸🦋✨🖌

[@ElizabethSampson]

45 years of practice and patience and always learning! Completely self-taught. Comparison is a dream killer.

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

Love that attitude, Elizabeth!

[@clayandcolours]

Wow.. yeahhh and I need another life to finish learning 😃

[@brendavawter]

I doubt you're "completely self-taught". That implies you didn't watch any videos or read any books or listen to any advice or tips. Everyone learns from someone. Unless you actually sat there and learned by trial and error for 45 years.

[@Tarafairytaleflowers]

The biggest growth came when I realized making mistakes wasn't a big deal. I was fortunate and gained art experience through college I was in an interior design program. First year had a teacher tell me I had to learn from a book because I couldn't be taught. The second year I had a teacher who purposely made mistakes in front of us. It was so freeing. When I had permission to make mistakes my art blossomed. One of my projects made it to the wall in the hall and I had the satisfaction that the teacher who thought I couldn't be taught saw my painting in the hall, leaned in to see who did it and jumped back several feet. Make as many mistakes as you can

[@omnesilere]

Self-taught is not a badge of honor, it is an unfortunate circumstance. Go get educated about your craft.

[@dianecourtney2724]

Jenna My favorite growth moment is Finding You Today. I am just now beginning with absolutely no idea of what to do next. I have no artistic background and I am old 😂 I’m excited and feel like I will be terrible BUT I am going to try … just for fun . Thank you for your wonderful video Sending you what might be my best flower 🌷

[@sophiacosmas6185]

I had high standards and couldn’t meet them and was so hard on myself until I started doing things with my non- preferred hand. I expected the work to be wobbly and imperfect and it helped me embrace the imperfect and find value in the process. I have made friends with the brush now and can see real progress from painting everyday for over a year. I am much better for it in my heart and mind. ❤️🌷☀️

[@thepowerofyourtrueself4794]

I love your comment so much, as I am also an artist, but I don't want to be perfect and comparing myself to others...it's the value of expressing your true self that is the greatest reward...best wishes 💛

[@patrickscaia9335]

Yes I to realized my drawing was to controled. I found drawing on a bunpy bus ride helped. 😀

[@kerriclarke9366]

Good for your brain too 😊

[@carolinerothenberg3982]

Last week I did an entire painting with my left hand. I thought it would wake up my right brain...nope. It was better than I expected but the right brain didn't react! Lol...

[@artwithvie]

My biggest growth moment was just letting myself be creative with out forcing creativity. Any practice is practice

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

Yes! Love it!

[@kathykaura7219]

I started a small greeting card-type watercolor. I wanted to practice making leaves with my new squirell hair brushes. I couldn't make leaves. It just wasn't working. But I started a painting a wreath. Started with a circle (good), started painting leaves around the circle (very ugly). Painted berries (very ugly). 2nd layer on leaves & berries (ugly). I just stopped caring why my painting was so ugly. I just kept painting the ugly picture in defeat. By the time I was finished IT WAS GORGEOUS!!!!! (Never. Give. Up.) :D

[@anywhereartwithbarbararoth8674]

As an art teacher for over 25 years, I totally agree with Jenna’s advice and tips! Thank you Jenna for sharing your journey.

[@pparnell9683]

I am so thrilled to run across your channel on KZbin and this video.I am a 79 yr old retired RN and have tried almost every craft. I've always been intimidated by watercolor painting. But not anymore. Thank you for opening my eyes to something new and exciting. I can't wait to get started but 1st I am going to watch all your tutorials and get your book. I have alot to learn and you're my new guru. Thank you so much for jump starting this old lady again. ❤🎉

[@eternalfizzer]

Thank you for the encouragement. I was blown away by a neighbour who's an artist who fosters my interest in watercolours and invested in me with my first student grade palette and proper paper. As soon as I picked up the brush, I realized all the tentative forays with dollar store and garage sale supplies were in the past. she's loaned me books on colour theory and sent me links to tutorials on different techniques that are guiding my progress. Thank you for showing where time, patience and hard work end up.

[@melindaavila498]

Saw this in your email today. I had viewed this 2 years ago, and it is a pleasure to see it again. Fortune has shined on you girl!

[@plquick]

I am deeply appreciative of your relaxed teaching style and deep understanding of color. composure and style. I, at 72 years old, have decided to attempt watercolor painting. I have no art training...zero. I had no idea where to start. I came across your channel, watched your "Ten Trees" video and feel so relieved that I don't have to know how to draw before I can paint; I just have to understand shapes. I have subscribed to your channel and plan to begin my artistry soon. So, from an old guy without a clue, bless you for sharing your talent with me. I'm very excited to have you as my teacher!

[@Skirliegirl]

Thank you Jenna. Every time I feel despondent, I watch this to remind myself that no-one is perfect! My biggest growth moment came with good quality paper....its a game changer.

[@joseph4756]

I understand that you're just being the person you are, but I found myself gratefully stunned by your candor and humility, and the confident, sincere, enthusiastic, and generous place your experience(s) has led you to! All Blessings, Peace, and Light, to you and yours, in all you do! Be well always! Namaste! 🙏🔥🙏

[@swiitchy511]

Paint can definitely be intimidating, especially when you've watched videos and tried to imitate (what would be considered a masterpiece) having no idea how many light-years ahead of you they were. Taking it easy and enjoying the process is beautiful. Getting better is a bonus. Thanks for the tips.

[@zszoster]

I picked up the paint brush for the first time in 30 years this month. The joy of just seeing the end result and the lost hours in my bubble is hard to express. Thank you Jenna, for the reminder of practise practise practise and all the great tips. They are now in my creative toolbox.

[@43Marjorie]

Thank you for sharing your story. I turned 80 this year and I have always loved art in it's many forms. I am a photographer, turned professional maybe 15 years ago. I am also a color specialist and worked in a big box hardware store for three years, working in home décor and paint mixing. I was a member of Emerald City Artisans doing faux finishing, painting walls until I was probably going to seriously injure myself if I didn't stay off ladders and scaffoldings. Photography has been my biggest creative outlet, but watercolor painting has always intrigued me. I have done oils and acrylics before but watercolor is so unique. Now I am fascinated with learning how to create beautiful watercolor paintings. I started collecting higher quality brushes and paints 4-5 years ago and am so ready to immerse myself in learning watercolors. I have watched many KZbin videos and your approach has started me on the path that is speaking to my heart. I have your "Everyday watercolor" book and am watching your videos every day. I just want to say a huge THANK YOU for sharing your knowledge and skill and your most beautiful journey. You a a kindred spirit and I love that you have gotten an early start. Paint on!!

[@amfla3787]

The side-effects of this pandemic- staying home, going out less- have helped me find time and space for art in my life. It's so therapeutic.

[@aremedyproject9569]

am FLA For me it’s cancer AND the pandemic. It took that much to let myself have some joy. I think many people are learning to stop and sit down; they are finding a level of peace through creating - for the sake of creating. It’s ok to not be stressing out.😎

[@lauriewarner4848]

I recognize your Art. It is so wonderful to see your face with your talent. Thank you for sharing your story, it was magical. Bravo.

[@watercolourartincapetown2919]

That piano teacher sounds like the best! And explains your approach to art 🎹 The best teachers teach the why so you don’t have to memorize the how 😊

[@phyllispeterson5800]

Starting out so new..I don't even have a brush. Just watching your Playlist and thinking this is something I might like to try. 😊

[@Katrina.for_art]

What really helped my practice and fun was cutting paper to smaller less intimidating size and like the other comments, a list of subjects to paint. I love pinterest for that.

[@patriciamerewether3320]

Thank you so much - your info is the first that addressed my 'issues' - self-doubt, comparing, and being afraid to 'waste' supplies - I had an art class in 5/6th grade and almost won a contest - I was in heaven! then (long story) I ended up in Catholic school and they frowned on art and so did my parents. I didn't paint/draw 'till I was married and my inlaws were very supportive - bought me one of those wood fancy cases filled with oils and a large easel ! Well, started again with classes - a couple college classes - but life, babies, job, gave me little time - I started again in my 50's (then illness struck) so, here I am in my 70's and was thinking it's too late. NOT! So your classes and your pep talks help SO much - so, know that you helped at least ONE person - in case you have doubts!

[@marygeer3803]

U don’t know me but...this is my story too ! Exactly like my own experience Exactly! How strange

[@candicechase5242]

HI Jenna!! I'm super late to YOUR game, so I hope that you will see this message.... Thank you SO much for this video! I'm you 10 years ago. Thank you for sharing your first watercolor pieces...doing this has literally given me hope and I am so grateful. I mean I was about to just give up, thinking I didn't have the God given talent needed to produce good art. I'm not trying to have an art business; I just want to have an outlet and to one day produce art for my home and maybe as gifts. I really needed your video, and again, I thank you for it!! Now I will go and watch ALL of your videos....

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

Hey Candice! I am so excited you came across this video. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Keep on painting, it’s such a wonderful outlet! With time and practice, you will make beautiful art for you home and for your loved ones. Just don’t forget to enjoy the process. Take care! ❤️❤️

[@sheilafurletti2022]

Just found you and I am eighty. I have taken lessons yrs ago but so thrilled I found you. Looking forward to learning more. I agree with quality on supplies. So appreciate your heart for people to enjoy this. Sheila F. NY

[@MeKsTeR330]

In a similar stroke of fate, I was given a crate full of art supplies that had been abandoned in a storage unit and your book was among them! I didn't even realize you were the author until you mentioned the book by name at the end! 😂

[@trumpetm]

My growth moment was experimenting with brush to paper without drawing first. I do both now but was shocked how wonderful my painting turned out. It is one of my favorites.

[@lindakuck5981]

Dear Jenna, I know this is an old post, but I watched it anyway. Thank you so much for the words of encouragement for beginners. I have just started to paint watercolor, and I'm in my 60s, so I needed to hear this video because some days I want to give it up. Thanks again 😊

[@susan897]

Jenna, thank you for you, you are a gift to all of us. I’m 74 and never have been exposed to art, love it. Peace flows when I turn on piano music, pick up a brush, dip it in water, listening to Jenna, and practice. I so need it now, life is busy, wonderful family and life but in the middle of it all I’m thinking, I have to pick up a new brush at Michaels! Thank you and carry on.

[@susannebukatz4457]

As a creative person I'm a perfectionist but unfortunately not persistent enough to practice if I don't see immediate improvement. Last year we've been to Croatia and went into a small art gallery of a great artist whose works made me cry. Art never touched me so deeply before. I told her how much her art resonates with me and we connected right away. She inspired me so much that after the trip, I got out my watercolors and just painted for several days. The first picture I did turned out so good that I couldn't believe I'd done this. Some time later I switched to acrylics. What I realized was: 1. You get maybe one amazing painting out of every 10-15 paintings and the fear of starting a new one after you've done a fantastic piece can sometimes be scary, but you just have to start again quickly. 2. I need an intensive connection with either the thing/animal I paint or I need to love the person for whom I paint. If I paint with all my love, my paintings turn from nice to great. So if I'm not excited about a topic, I might do it for practice but don't expect it to become excellent.

[@kdcraft89]

Not momentous, but a tiny change. When I'm done with one project, I set out the supplies for the next one the night before. Makes it much easier to get started and less likely to procrastinate.

[@ddegraw71]

This is super encouraging to me. I've been drawing and watercolor painting for the last 30+ years, but I still struggle with comparing where I am against others. It's really held me back. This video has really inspired me to keep at it and be the best me I can be. I'm going to start with regular practice every day. Thanks so much, Jenna. It actually feels like listening to a friend and not an instructor. Thank you for that.

[@maryalicecoleman4661]

I’m just starting the process of watercolor. I come from a family of artists so I’m very intimidated, but not discouraged. I have used acrylics for 25 years. I love your five reasons that you got better because you can apply them to learning anything new. I’ve been a life coach for 25 years and those rules/reasons are suggestions I’ve used but for the mind. 😀 I’m glad I found your channel. ❤️ you are very talented.

[@nalanihamby3710]

One of the best bits of advice I've ever been given was from another KZbinr "Lindsey the frugal crafter" if you're painting and you think you've ruined it forever....keep painting! If it is already ruined you cannot make it worse so just keep painting and learning. Darned if she isn't right too! Same theory as bob ross, we don't make mistakes we make happy little accidents and out of those we make trees 😂. There is this thing I've seen time and time again, it took me a while to catch myself doing it too, I would be watching someone working on stuff and go "jeez that looks awful there is no way they're gonna save that piece!!" And then I kept watching and they would. I think what separates artistic ability levels is the ability to see beyond the chaos of the moment and relentlessly go after it. You just have to get out of your own criticism and ego and keep on going. It reminds me of the scene in creed where Rocky stands him in front of the mirror and tells him the hardest opponent he will ever have to face is standing right in front of him. He is so right! You have to get over your own negative mindset in order to really experience the freedom to create art you enjoy. Okay ranting over 😂😂🎉

[@louisevessey3839]

So, I'm watching random watercolour videos and this one is in the queue. Loved hearing your journey and the reality of just how much practice and time art takes...then at the end I saw the one book I have been following is yours! Every day watercolour! I got frustrated tonight trying to paint leaves. Just need to put my expectations in check! I'm a full time photographer and am slowing down a bit after 31 years. I wanted a change to spark creativity so here I am! Thank you for sharing your journey and talents!

[@bethw7]

I've been painting for 20 years and learned all of the same lessons you did, pretty much in the same order (except I started with Winsor & Newton Artist paints/brushes, Arches paper). I think finding your voice is one of the most important lessons in art and life. You're the only one who can tell your story! You can learn technique and get ideas for subjects from other artists, but you need to find your own authentic voice instead of copying someone else's. That's easier said than done. For me, that voice includes subjects (Maine landscapes, flowers, birds), style (realism), mood (happy, relaxed), and purpose (to add sunshine and joy to people's lives). Knowing this has helped me stay out of the imposter syndrome/comparison trap.

[@Streetview83659]

Wow amazing incredible advice, I think I'll be coming back to watch this many times to remind myself of the importance stuff! Very grateful

[@dougporter9702]

Jenna , I just stumbled across this and you have given me so much hope. I love to do this and sometimes feel I’m jumping in over my head I’m creative and just do it for fun but I would love to learn more and be so much better than I am. People tell me I’m so good but I find myself comparing and not believing them. My own worst critic. Your words of inspiration and hope and hope to overcome are magic to my ears. Thank you for sharing your journey and caring enough to help teach us out here struggling. I hope to become better and find my own niche. I truly appreciate you sharing your tips and knowledge and actually talking about it not just painting.

[@BettyRainey]

Your journey is inspiring. I'm taking my supples and starting over with what makes me happy. Good luck with you future.

[@MelakKhaleelArts]

I really appreciate KZbin recommending this video for me because, for over 24 years of my life, I was always scared to be wild and explore painting. I knew I loved it and it literally calmed my mind and soul, I'd doodle here and there, always had pens and sketchbooks but never actually thought I was good because I constantly saw other artists and creatives doing so much better than I have. My partner earlier this year said to me "Just paint this photo that you like and if you don't like it, who cares, paint over it and start something else". No one has ever said anything like this to me so I did my first ever portrait and now it's hanging in our living room. I've done over 15 since and I've just started taking commissions. So thank you for this video because 16 year old me would've loved to hear those words

[@elisiataylor]

Last year, I did this for Christmas; followed your advice and bought one tube of professional watercolour paint. It was SO beautiful to paint with and dramatically different from student grade, I bought 3 more tubes, so I had the primary colours... The next growth step, was, after watching @TheMindOfWatercolor, I finally bought myself 100% cotton quality watercolor paper... each of these steps open up a world of joy and increase my confidence 💛 Thank you for creating a beautiful place on KZbin filled with encouragement and guidance ✨️

[@lisanisbet1877]

Oh my God! I have studied your book since I first began painting watercolor. It was literally the first book I bought to help me with my practice. And today, I just happened upon your channel, and realize that it's YOU! When you showed the cover of your book, it was like seeing an old friend! Now, I know your face and your channel, and can continue to be inspired by you. Thank you!

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

Yay! ❤️❤️

[@colleenmcchesney1482]

Wow I am finally finding out some of these very things with my art journey now. These are some great tips, ideas, & wonderful moments for helping out others with their own art journey. Thanks for sharing this with us! 💕😊

[@morlandalamaga5899]

When i got my Fine Arts degree in College, my draws were too stiff. I quit drawing for a summertime and a friend who is an illustrator gave me an advice: "distort". I was too concerned about proportion and perspective... I decided to draw just for fun and all the sudden everything I had learned got integrated and my stroke started to flow gracefully...

[@robertfrydell6894]

Jenna, mom and I are talking about doing some painting for fun, therapy. Searched beginning painting tutorial and your tutorial came up. Nice, talked about how you arrange your paint colors, brushes, color wheel. Painted some awesome leaves. Hmmm. What else does she have? Hit this one. Jenna, what a, dare I say life changing video. It's your story. Your success story told honestly - no bs, from an intelligent, successful, talented woman. Talking about her real mindset and it makes sense to me. Not afraid to put paint to paper is where I really started to listen up This video really hit me hard. THANK YOU.

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

Aw Robert! I’m so glad you found my channel and this video was so impactful for you. That’s why I do this, I’m happy to be an inspiration and help!

[@watercolourartincapetown2919]

“This is what we do to play” love that! Your mom is amazing!! 🍃 🌹 🦋 And yes to “do not compare” ☺️ so necessary for our mental health, especially relevant for our whole life 🙏

[@BuddyLuv]

I'm commenting just to give you the renumeration support but yeah, everything you said was awesome and I'm still figuring out my growth moments.

[@ThereIsSoulInArt]

I had no idea how therapeutic watercolor painting could be. Also, it has touched on a part of my soul and opened up something that I didn't even know existed! Pretty amazing to have an experience like this, but sad that I didn't realize it sooner in life. I was in my mid 60s when I picked up a brush for the first time. You are never too old!

[@stephaniemerlin1]

That's lovely to read.

[@lesleyobrien1492]

Watercolour was new to me when I was 60 as well. I managed to get accepted on a foundation art course at a college and had an amazing year learning how to free myself from tight, stressful painting. I’m now over 70 and enjoy painting as often as I can. I hope to retire one day and dedicate my remaining energy and using up some of my wonderful paints and papers that I have collected over the years! Like most people - I get lost in my painting and find it hard to stop. Always remember that if you enjoy painting then it must be good for your stress levels - regardless of your results.

[@ThereIsSoulInArt]

@@lesleyobrien1492 Thank you for the lovely reply. What a wonderful experience you have had & what a good plan you have made for the future. I'm glad I am in great company. :-) I have been so encouraged by doctors, nurses, techs, my family and friends. The medical field really loves this as a form of stress management as do I! Lol Yes, I too am guilty for getting lost in painting for hours at a time. Its just so fun to immerse ones self into the beauty of watercolor and also see what one can create from each stroke of the brushes. May you be blessed in your journey.

[@signaturelements]

quality supplies is KEY! I'm a fiber artist and a lot of people think they should start with cheap/inexpensive yarn while they're learning. However, its a very tactile and therapeutic craft and I say practice with the yarn that moves you. Nice thing about yarn is it can be rewound and reworked! I LOVE your channel and I'm beginning my watercolor journey obsessively watching your vids. lmao. THANK YOU

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

I am SO happy you're loving my channel! Thanks for watching! ❤️

[@yvonnehusic9879]

Jenna, you’re the first artist I found on You Tube a few months into the shut-down! Your art just popped up, and I clicked on to watch the video. I was immediately fascinated, and went online to buy watercolor, paper and brushes. Didn’t think too much about what I was getting, at the time. My “classes” are watching you and a few others, that’s it. My work reduced during covid and found myself with free time. Then, I found art 🖼 and trying to re-imagine myself, from lawyer to emerging (pre) beginner artist 👩‍🎨. You should consider writing another book about the topic of this video, to include other beginners’ comments, successes and challenges. Thank you for getting me started!

[@watercolourartincapetown2919]

Awww can totally relate to your story Yvonne, I think many of us are moving away from corporate and testing out our creative side 👩🏻‍🎨 best of luck!!

[@yvonnehusic9879]

@@watercolourartincapetown2919 thank you so much and the best to you as well! ❤️

[@karenlabrado497]

Thank you for sharing your journey! It actually comforts me to know that you started at 23, not really knowing what to do and found comfort in painting. I am in the same season. I am also 23 yrs old now and I just discovered how therapeutic painting is. I am not born as an artist as well, no one in my family is creative, but your words comfort me, motivated me and assured me that I'll get better in time and constant practice. More power! ❤❤

[@cindymccann3753]

I think the most important thing I've learned today here is that I need to have patience. The mind tends to give up too quickly. Your reminder not to do that completely changed my whole view, Jenna. Thanks. I also grew up with a mother who was an artist...full blown. I was raised around it. So I'm just now taking the time to paint. I never thought I would do this. Your book enlightened me to go for it. I'm not going to be find a business in this, but I do want to find success in each stroke. Once again you have guided me there.

[@sheillacollins3397]

Your video is so inspiring. I have started trying to spend more time practicing my painting and have even sold a couple paintings. Thank you for sharing your story. 🫶

[@Throwan_Hands]

Something that has really stuck with me was when I was trying to figure out how people come up with their own style and I believe it was on a Disney documentary where one of the artists said, "it's about picking what you can draw simply and what has to have detail." It really struck me between the eyes and ever since then, I've noticed how ALL artists (except hyper realistic perhaps) simplify things in their drawings. It was about how to simplify an animals look while still maintaining the image of said animal to be immediately recognizable to the audience. It's something I've since played with and has advanced my art in so many different directions.

[@EllenAvilla-lf1gl]

Thank you so much for your tutorials, it helps a lot to a beginner like me. God bless

[@beats2476]

I've been watching you for a while. I'm so glad that you have succeeded in your venture. I'm now 67 and just learning how to paint. I love watercolor and take a class every year for the past 4 years. Unfortunately, I'm no better LOL. but love doing it. If anything I've always got nice reviews from family and even given gifts for Christmas. I love doing it and I guess that is all that matters.

[@kirstenhoopes7898]

Hey Nennine we must be kindred spirits! I feel like you, I just love doing it. You give me motivation to keep trying. 🙂 And I am grateful for Jenna and her kindness and generosity in teaching us the things she has learned. Things like this just make life better!

[@mision778]

Greeting, being better doesn't always mean for the finest result of our hardwork.. there must be something improving from you, it could be the time you spent to finish the work getting more fixed, getting used of color sense/shading/highlighting, or you found your confidence of your style. Because you love doing it, you'll definitely grown with it. As long as you enjoy what'd you doing, it's good for you.

[@irenehenry1834]

Thank you for telling me its ok to not be good at first but to keep practicing. I know it will happen, I can FEEL it!

[@alenabudiman694]

My biggest growth moment was when I learned to stop being afraid of painting shadows. For so long I wouldn’t paint them dark enough. Once I learned to overcome the fear, my flowers had so much more dimension.

[@sherrywebster1675]

Brilliant . Thank you. ( a semi beginner from Australia)

[@angelaramseyrobinson4407]

I am an Art Therapist and when I started a creative practice based on my training that was totally separate from any attempts to create finished work that anyone else might see, it advanced my creativity exponentially. Often I scribble as a warmup. By creating with a focus on process over product, and getting comfortable with making tons of truly “ugly” but expressive art, after a few years of this, the quality of my work made a huge leap. Keeping a creative journal or sketchbook was part of my process too. I paint watercolor but I gravitated to mixed media/experimental water media based paintings. Another big advance was when I started working big and also when I began using high quality materials too. I decided my art was worthy of being taken seriously, and I went from scrawling images with glitter crayons on napkins to large scale paintings. Within a year of making that commitment and painting daily with the intention of sharing my artwork, I opened a studio/art gallery. I agree with all five points. If you’re passionate and love making art and make a lot of it, you will get better.

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

This is excellent, Angela! Thanks for sharing!

[@angelaramseyrobinson4407]

@@JennaRaineyChannel Thank you! It’s so impressive that you have created such an awesome online business from your art. That’s the next transition I hope to make.

[@chaitalichatterjee9549]

@Angela thank you for your words.

[@nitakarane1922]

Huge thank you for sharing your experience. You gave an inspiration to carry on with my dream of painting and keep working hard.

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

*PLEASE READ: I’ve responded to a handful of comments on this but I’ll say it here for anyone with this concern... YES, I contacted the moving company, but we unfortunately didn’t have any luck tracking the person down to return the supplies. Although it is a bummer regardless the value of the supplies, for what it’s worth, they were lower-end inexpensive supplies. I hope that satisfies some of your questions. Thanks so much for watching. Take care! ❤️❤️

[@wanderingcreativity]

inspiring ! art grew through consistent AND intentional practice

[@JGSewell]

How did you go from your business in the beginning to having your work sold in staples and other stores?

[@paintingtheskykingdom9005]

IThank you for your honest video - I am working daily, and sometimes I don't feel like I improve fast enough, yet then I look back and realize I am getting there. Being able to afford some skillshare tutorials helps, although youtube has helped and given me break throughs too. I actually was able to believe that it was possible for me to do art and get better by watching a few other honest youtubers (I had not heard of you until more recently - but can see you are another big inspiration) Another big growth occurred when I made up my mind that I would do watercolor no matter what, and being intentional led me a position where I could do that (I'm working as a nanny - no longer as a RN) - less money, but much better life quality!

[@badmother7615]

I actually am a professionally trained artist (by way of architecture) from a family of professional artists and amateur harsh art critics (everyone’s a critic, right?), so the comparison thing and the loud inner critical voice is NO joke. It paralyzed me for decades. When my art-critic writing career collapsed, I fell back into doodling with my sons at the kitchen table. I found myself incredibly frustrated by my rusty technique. That was an aHA moment. I hadn’t picked up a pencil or brush or kept a sketchbook for 15 years and I expected to be Andrew Wyeth? I felt unworthy of my expensive brushes and the expensive papers I had inherited from my father. I bought CHEAP sketchbooks (moleskines-which look nice but are actually really affordable and the paper is...meh.) and used my sons school pencils. Daily drawing. A weekly watercolor. (Again-super cheap paper and my sons’ Crayola watercolors.) or a pastel portrait (paper grocery bags, cheap pencils). i had to tell myself over and over it was just cheap paper. But I still had to fill up the page before I could turn over the next leaf. I had to do at least five doodles of a particular subject before drawing something else. Just little rules I made for myself to give me some direction. I draw my daily drawing while having coffee with my husband in the morning. If I get into the zone, I might allow myself to continue. I started using better paper and my old expensive pigments. I’m still at sea, with unknown destination. But I’m drawing it out.

[@josefschiltz2192]

Sitting in a bus station in 1997, getting my sketch pad from my bag and, instead of drawing what was around me, planned out the first Surrealist - Abstract Expressionist piece I had drawn for about twenty years. I wrote beneath. 'Transfiguration' which started me on the creative path I'm on now.

[@andrewmass1414]

Excellent. Very encouraging. I need to get better paper and get back to daily practice

[@pamburt]

Totally agree with your 5 points. I’ve been watercolour painting on and off for almost 50 years (I’m 65 now) and it’s only now that I’m discovering what I can really produce as an amateur artist. I would love to have done this professionally when I was younger but unfortunately I never had sufficient financial security to enable me to give up my job and do art for a living. Instead I needed to help pay the bills. Now after many decades, I’m retired and have both the cash for good materials and the time to devote to it. So sad I had to wait so long ☹️

[@ghostoflazlo]

But you're only 65 and have the financial stability to really develop and hone your skills. Enjoy that time not working, travel w your pencil and draw your experiences. You have a whole life to take inspiration from, instead of looking back on what you missed embrace all the beauty you have in front of you. It's few people who can quit their job and survive doing art, I'm most def one of them but instead of mourning that I enjoy and cherish the moments I have taking out my palet and my pencils. Now, go on and just paint the most beautiful things you can imagine and just celebrate what you have.

[@trewrealtor]

Thank you! I am having so much fun learning something new. You are a great teacher and to hear you say to stop comparing is wonderful. I drew a rose from my thoughts tonight. The way I want my art to look. Not like a photograph I liked the drawing for the first time. 72 is not too old!

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

You’re so welcome, Theresa! Happy painting! 💕

[@sujanithtottempudi2991]

I left watercolor few months back....now mostly into oils and pastels...however today I opened my old watercolor stocks...painted... suddenly it came out well...then now I'm jumping again into this transparent world!.thanks for inspiration 👍

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

Love to hear you got back into it! 💕

[@Yasumi_Hoshikawa]

Found this very encouraging even as a digital artist. Sure, the quality supplies point doesn't apply, but all the rest do, especially color theory and learning to blend whatever media and brushes you're simulating. Not the same as traditional but same advice applies! Absolutely love keeping that child's mind every time you're making art, and the piano examples help too! I also grew up learning piano and painting but the childish joy quickly faded when I took it too seriously and yes the comparison hell that is social media does NOT help at all! So this reminder is extremely valuable

[@msbohogirl77]

thank you!, I actually want to cry 🥲, I began with watercolor on sept 2020 , I have been practicing everyday, I feel that I have improved since then , but, lately, I’ve been feeling stuck and blocked, and I was feeling so sad, because it’s been my therapy on these difficult times, I was actually thinking about leave it for good.... watching your video and hearing about your journey gave me hope, and remember about just having fun and paint for the fun of it...to just let go, and play....I really needed it!,, thank you!,,, 🥰 Greetings from Mexico!

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

Aw Claus! I am SO happy I saw your comment and that I have this video to encourage you to keep going!! You can do it! We all feel stuck from time to time, but you can keep going!

[@abydaa9289]

I felt the same way. I just learned how to paint while in quarantine. I didn't know I could do it. I didn't know I'd enjoy it. It helped me a lot during the tough times. But about 5 months ago I just stopped. Lost interest. I think I stopped because I couldn't perfect this one painting so I gave up. Just a couple of days ago, I just started painting again and it was so much fun. Lesson learned: I am my worst critic. I need to let go and just keep going. I hope to be able to paint more. Thank you for this encouraging video!

[@msbohogirl77]

@@JennaRaineyChannel thank you Jenna! Thanks for sharing your talent, experiences and light with the world. 🥰

[@claricek2653]

I started painting at the start of the pandemic. My son introduced me to virtual tours on KZbin. While searching for new virtual tours, I discovered paint tutorials. It started with acrylics and oils, but once I discovered watercolor, I became obsessed. I discovered your channel, learned how to subscribe lol I'm still learning social media. I became obsessed with trying to paint a rose. I couldn't get it to save my life. With ALOT of PRACTICE I finally learned to paint a rose. All of your advice is so important, I wish I had heard this Last year lol. I have wasted so much money buying with no clue what I was buying. I could go on. Thank you I need your books and a interactive paint community to paint with.

[@elainelogan2023]

I get you! what is it about painting roses???!! LOL me too

[@colleenm9188]

I have a very positive art teacher in a different art media and style who is very encouraging. She often says, "You're the artist; it's fine." In other words don't be so critical. I do think that practice, practice, practice as well as a solid grounding in the art form is critical for advancement. Thanks for that reminder. I always think the best quality supplies, even if you're a beginner, is the best to encourage the best results. I think it's wonderful that you are helping us think of our projects and encouraging us to just keep practicing. Thanks for sharing your experience! 💜🙏🏻

[@blackbearybears]

Thank you for this. Thank you so much. I've been on social media getting very discouraged and feeling I'm not good enough. Struggling every day a bit more to get back to my paints to the point where it creates anxiety. I've developed a very critical eye which doesn't help at all. When I listened to this it totally changed the way I feel about painting. While I still have some negative feelings about my abilities, I'm not afraid to carry on and enjoy the medium.

[@Gracenglory5]

Ohhh goodness, the “you should be further along now that you’ve been at it for years” is my greatest mental block!!! So many life road blocks causing one step forward, two steps back. Thank you for sharing!!! Super helpful and encouraging. Many blessings to you and yours! 🙏🏻🙌🏻💞

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

So glad this was helpful and encouraging, Tina! Thanks for sharing. Take care! ❤️

[@barbarabartek4963]

Just starting and you are helping making this just FUN!

[@autumnruns]

For real, it was upgrading my supplies. I couldn’t believe the difference it made to get good paints, paper, and brushes.

[@rdred8693]

Makes a huge difference, it really does!

[@pepperstep]

Especially paper!

[@bumblebee803]

@autumnruns I agree!

[@judisnyder4868]

You're so authentic and not arrogant and that shows through your video. Competitiveness and comparisons are an enemy of all artists today. Thanks for bringing that up. Stick to being you with your creativity and things will flow in the right direction. Thanks.

[@AfroTee]

Thank you so much for this. I started as an art student and ended up in corporate America because I needed a “real job”. I was good. But I wasn’t happy. Put me on a rock and let me draw and I would be so happy. I want to make up that lost time. It’s not too late. This encouraged me.

[@maiartoldaccount]

Thanks for sharing valuable content and mindsets 😊❤

[@zengal5685]

You creating this video may have just changed my life. Not kidding. Eternally grateful for your brutal honesty because these are precisely the things that have been holding me back. Thank you!!!! 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

Awww I’m honored to hear this, thanks for sharing! ❤️❤️❤️

[@donnamanion9334]

Your ideas encourage me, for I too, love art, but never thought myself worthy to be an artist. Now, I work at it whenever I can! May you have continued success.

[@gerimcquillen9496]

I've been painting with watercolors for about 5 years. My first attempts weren't good but I painted Christmas cards and sold them at our community bazaar. People bought them! I was blown away but it encouraged me to continue. 5 years later I'm called an artist, still to my disbelief. All of your recommendations have been part of my journey but without guidance I've had to discover these things by trial and error. Along the way I was told to use only cold press paper and Winsor Newton paints. Now I use Saunders Waterforrd hot press and rough paper only and Sennelier paints because I love the honey base. I generally use only 3 Escoda synthetic brushes. I do experiment with other paints, including metallics. Thank you for your insights and advice. Wish I'd discover you sooner.

[@BuddyLuv]

The best part of this was learning that you're not a graduate of the Fine Arts. The way your art came about for you was truly fate - meant to be - and look at you now! I feel much more assured that I have a chance of reaching your level of talent if I dedicate myself. So pleased to have discovered your channel. Thanks for making this available.

[@jodirisenmay1200]

Doing something that allows for mistakes or the grace of imperfection, is what got me creating again.

[@BirdSong_01]

Thank You so very much Jenna! I am exactly as you described in the beginner stages. I can paint.. don’t worry about the outcome for now.. enjoy the process. Also, very confused about the supplies I should be using! Thank you for your links and tips and your tutorials 💕

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

You're so welcome! I have a ton of supply videos you can find on my homepage. And I have a video coming out in a couple weeks that will really help with what supplies will get you started!

[@sunshinejulie5687]

Thank you. I've been feeling discouraged with my art lately. It's good to know other people have been through the same and persevered.

[@JennaRaineyChannel]

❤️❤️❤️

[@jowebster2710]

Thanks Jenna, you’ve kept me going, I’m 63yrs young and started watercolour painting last year at the beginning of lockdown & covid, I have felt like throwing the towel in sooo many times, it’s so hard, but thanks to ALL your tutorials, all your encouragement I’m still going and loving it, you’ve even got me doing calligraphy. I have your books and love them, I’m so grateful for how you teach, and for sharing all the frustrating stuff too. I’ve grown a lot with your videos, I look at flowers buds leaves etc all differently since doing your art school videos, my biggest growth has come with colour theory, that’s what I’m working on now, mixing up them there colours and hues etc, and thanks to you having fun too. And as you say ‘just keep going it’ll all be fine’ .Your a 🌟 xx

[@MomofukoU]

First of all... THANK YOU for encouraging us to LEARN. Painting something daily is a big deal for me. I’m 62 and started watercolors 4.5 months ago. Somehow I sell everything I paint on IG and it still blows my mind, BUT, I have to do it daily! Color theory is a challenge for me. I know I need to study it. I’m just resisting like a mule tho. Again, thanks for this, Jenna!

[@waymakersfun-time3930]

I thank you for your comment. Somehow telling a person that you sell your projects after a few months feels better than hearing it will take years. I believe we should be creating daily and we will be learning and getting better. That doesn't mean your art isn't good. You may see the flaws in your work, yet someone else may see beauty and purchase it. I wish as professional artist we would stop telling budding artist that it will take them years. That's not always true.

[@margaretmitchell7168]

I am 72 and just started watercolor about 2 years ago. Painting has kept me sane during this pandemic/shut down. UTube is amazing.

[@Lulis56]

How do you sell on IG?

[@paintingtheskykingdom9005]

Hi that is great! I'm 62 too and am obsessed with watercolor and don't quite sell everything I paint (I started a couple of years ago) but have started to sell a few things and get a few commissions which is fine! I am so happy to be able to do this! I'd love to know your Instagram handle to follow you since we are the same age and loving watercolor. I'm @paintingtheskykingdom. And thank you @jenna rainey for this video!

[@MomofukoU]

@@waymakersfun-time3930 Believe me...I see flaws in my pieces 🤣 and lots of them. Somehow what I see as huge glaring MISTAKES, others do not see AT ALL, thank the stars! Keep painting and stay curious!

[@wbracco]

I love the complete guides to watercolor and flowers. When i retired I wanted to pursue my passion and delved into watercolor painting. I never took a formal class so I turned to youtube and found you! Not knowing where to start your complete guide to watercolor gave me the tools and tips that i needed to begin. After watching most of your videos and following your instruction my favorite theme videos are the How to Paint 10 Trees and How to Paint 10 Flowers. I like the grouping of a theme and seeing the different techniques for painting the different types in the same genre. I want to say THANK YOU for helping me find my peace and please keep the videos coming.

[@TriniRoyQuiReyes]

Well literally crying as I'm typing this , when you talk about not being economically stable, besides a good friend of ours just asked me who is going to buy an art work during pandemic? Well I don't know, but seeing this video is a miracle that KZbin sent my way at this moment, I am so done with thinking that no one will buy my arts because of how the economy is at the moment. My job just finished last month, and as am thinking of the way forward to earn salary again and looking forward this video came . Thank you Jenna Thank you So much . God bless you Sis. Wishing success to everyone that can see this comment 😘

[@JennyFloravitaArt]

Definitely don't give up! And your friend is wrong...lots of people are buying art in this pandemic. Take some steps each day, if even small, to move towards your dreams in art and in selling art.

[@sonjasmit2944]

Because of the pandemic, people want to have art on their homes... The love, inspiration and the God-given talent the artist puts into the art is exactly what people hunger for right now! It's really is a blessing in these times! Follow your heart!

[@TriniRoyQuiReyes]

@@JennyFloravitaArt Good Day Jenny you don't know how much your Reply meant to me. Wow thank you for your lovely advice. Thank you for reading my comment. I'm so hopeful after reading your Reply I will keep it in mind, as a motivational strength to help me to continue moving forward in this unprecedented trying time . God Bless you So much Sis.Sending you Love from Spain 😘

[@TriniRoyQuiReyes]

@@sonjasmit2944 Wow Sonja .Thank you So much for the awesome support, you are so kind dear. I really ,truely appreciate your kind words . I 'm now in a good place after reading these encouraging Words from you and Jenny .😗Lots of Love | Qui

[@indigosysta4556]

I have picked up and thrown down watercolour brushes for years. It's great to learn brush control. So many tutorials skip this basic but essential skill. Now, I am still learning but not as frustrated. More than this I am having fun. I never thought learning to paint flowers and leaves could improve my skills so much. When I am at work I look forward to painting when I get home. Thank you

[@reneefukumotostudio]

Thank you Jenna. I really appreciated how you showed us your development. So inspiring for all of us, regardless of where we are on our art journey. I think my biggest learning moment was choosing fun over fear. Choosing to explore the "I wonder" vs the "I don't know if I can". Choosing to be an explorer has brought so much enjoyment to my studio time.

[@kandiaustin3591]

I'm very grateful for your videos. They've popped up at just the right time in my life, and rekindled my love of painting.

[@RatusMax]

I agree with you 100%!!! I am not a born artist but I progressed pretty fast within my first year of painting. (had a lot of time in 2020 lol) I will have to disclose that I did draw cartoons when I young. I went to college for science. So I took the scientific approach to painting and it worked. I split the process into different parts. 1. Know what the tool and paint does so you won't be surprised when painting. 2. Paint what you see. Not what you think you see. If your eyes is off the object for more than 4 seconds your painting from memory....Look at something for a while then leave the object and try to draw it in another room. Then go back and see how it looks compared to your drawing. That drawing is what YOU THINK you saw. AND NOT WHAT YOU ARE SEEING! YOU NEED TO TURN THAT OFF!! 3. Break down the painting process. Large shapes and then the smaller ones. Choose only the details that matter!!!

[@cutiepiezcontarria13]

One of my best growth moments is to occasionally just make some silly pointless art that has no intention of being good or bad, just basically doing it to put pen to paper or paint to canvas. Some of my favorite pieces have come from making “child-like” art that didn’t have the pressure. Like a cheesy homework sheet versus the end of the year final test, just removing all the pressure from it and allowing your mind to expand without shape.