Who are you and what do you do?
I’m Alyssa Whetstone and I’m an artist and art teacher. I work with pen and watercolor to create my paintings and I love to teach others to use this same combination of mediums. I find that even in adulthood we crave creative outlets and it can be a joyful experience to learn a new skill like painting. I lead others to find inspiration in the world around them and reflect on creativity either when looking at my work or making their own.
What is the latest thing you have been working on?
My latest project has been something called watercoloring pages. Each page has a hand-drawn image printed on watercolor paper ready to be painted by anyone of any skill level. To go with the drawing I created a super helpful step-by-step tutorial video that the artist can follow along at their own pace, pausing and playing as they go. I’m super excited about these as I provide a way for the less confident creatives to try watercolor painting without the pressure of drawing the picture.
What do your customers love most about your product(s)?
My customers love to see familiar places and walk down memory lane through the eyes of an artist. It brings me so much joy to connect with others through the nostalgia of familiar places. Customers often point out how they enjoy the simplicity of my illustrations even with the detail that goes into making it recognizable.
What is your favorite item that you sell?
My favorite item is my watercoloring pages. While I love making art, I also love sharing the art-making process with others. I’m excited to continue to expand my collection so you will always have more to try and create. They are so versatile because you can paint on your own or you can host your own paint-and-sip evening with friends and all paint together.
What are some inspirations for your work?
I am constantly inspired by the world around me. I am in awe of God’s creation and the intricacies of nature. I enjoy seeing familiar places and absorbing the nostalgic feeling that comes with them. Most of my art consists of places and plants but sometimes I find myself yearning to draw and paint joyful objects such as books or cups of tea. As a whole, I love creating things I know and see. Creating in a realistic style like this connects me with others who also enjoy the things I create.
What motivates you to create?
I am motivated to create by the relationships my art initiates. I love people and connecting with people. I don’t know if I would desire to make art if no one got to see it. I love showing others and connecting with them over familiar places or joyful scenes. I love having the ability to make something from nothing and using it to connect and bond with people outside of my typical circle.
Alyssa Whetstone | Minnesota Watercolor Artist
www.alyssawhetstoneart.com
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