Meet Michelle, watercolour artist, mum of two, and self-professed lover of the sky and crystals. A former WeTeachMer 💗 who also goes by @brushstrokesbymichelle, she is the painter behind the mesmerising pieces featured in today’s article.

If you remember loving art as a child, let Michelle’s story be a reminder that it’s never too late to reanimate the creative in you. Don’t wait! Pick up a brush, take a class, and start painting (again) today.

I started pursuing my artistic passion in 2018, as a birthday gift to myself as I turned 40. They say that life begins at this age, so I decided to pursue a childhood passion.

When I was younger, I enjoyed creating artsy things, not really painting per se, but exploring what I can make. But I have always been discouraged to do so and was told to focus on my academics.

Eventually, I ended up focusing on the more practical things and never had time for creative stuff until my youngest son asked for money to buy art materials for school. I asked him to buy me a sketchbook and watercolour, and emphasised that he buy the cheapest one because I just wanted to see if I could still be creative.

After I finished my creation - my first-ever piece in 20+ years, which took 8 hours - my shoulders and back were aching and I was frustrated. So, I searched online and booked a workshop! I did not know that I would be painting almost every single day after I attended a 3-hour workshop on basic watercolour painting techniques in March of that year. I was just so in love with watercolour!

After a year of painting almost every day, I have won a few challenges on Instagram, began collaborating with other artists and art suppliers, started teaching online, and even held a couple of workshops for small groups.

Find a painting workshop in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. Book a class today!

It’s been very rewarding for me to pursue this passion. Art has been my therapy and sharing it with everyone has given me so much fulfillment. I never thought I’d be teaching or inspiring others but those started happening, too.

I guess it’s true that your passion is your calling. And the moment you align yourself with your purpose, everything falls into place.

They say watercolour is one of the toughest mediums for beginners to master, but not impossible, as Michelle’s own painting adventure demonstrates. If you’re keen to give watercolour a go or have another medium you might like to try, there’s a watercolour class that’s just right for you.

Sydney

Christmas Illustrations Workshop by Maker’s Loft

Where: Maker’s Loft - Lifestyle Studio, 205 Ernest St, Cammeray NSW 2062
When: Sunday, 01 December 2019 2:30PM (3.0 hours)
Price: $220.00
Book here

Melbourne

Watercolours: The Natural World Level 1 by Fitzroy Painting

Where: Fitzroy Painting, Studio 19, 244 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
When: Friday, 7 February 2019 10:00AM (3 hours x 4 weeks)
Price: $220.00 (own materials), $260.00 (hire materials)
Book here

Watercolours: The Natural World Level 2 by Fitzroy Painting

Where: Fitzroy Painting, Studio 19, 244 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
When: Friday, 7 February 2019 10:00AM (3 hours x 4 weeks)
Price: $220.00 (own materials), $260.00 (hire materials)
Book here

Watercolour and Pen and Wash Trial Sessions by Box Hill Art Group

Where: Box Hill Community Art Centre, 470 Station St, Box Hill VIC 3128
When: Tuesday, 26 November 2019 1:00PM (2 hours)
Price: $20.00
Book here

Watercolour Christmas Wreath by 345 AC

Where: 345 AC, 345 Mont Albert Rd, Mont Albert VIC 3127
When: Saturday, 14 December 2019 7:00PM (2 hours)
Price: $55.00 (General), $95.00 (You + a friend @ $47.50/pax)
Book here

Summer Art Program Ink and Watercolour Sketching by YAVA Gallery

Where: YAVA Gallery & Arts Hub, 252 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville VIC 3777
When: Saturday, 11 January 2019 10:00AM (6 hours)
Price: $99.00 (General Admission), $90.00 (Early Bird)
Book here

Brisbane

Boozy Mixed Media by Work-Shop

Where: Woodsters, 16 Austin St, Newstead QLD 4006
When: Friday, 29 November 6:30PM (2.0 hours)
Price: $60.00
Book here

You too can learn how to paint. Book a class today in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane!