How Doing It Messy Can Spark the Magic (and Transformation)

Hello, fellow creative souls! If you’re stumbling upon this blog for the first time, I’m Zarah, the artist (and behind-the-scenes builder) of Watercolor Wizardry. Today, I wanted to share a personal update—a peek behind the curtain of my art journey, online business building, and all the messy, beautiful growth that comes from starting over with full intention.  I'll share some photos through the blog from today.

Embracing the Bold Move: Starting Over from Scratch

After pouring months into developing an online art program, I did something scary: I scrapped everything and made the decision to realign with what truly energizes and inspires me. It turns out, a beautiful program means little if it doesn’t feel authentic or match your vision. I realized that the core of Watercolor Wizardry—teaching hyper-realistic watercolor techniques and building a confident, creative community—demanded a reset. So, with equal parts nerves and excitement, I set out to build the Watercolor Wizardry Academy from the heart.

Why Join an "Unfinished" Academy?

You might wonder: Why would anyone want to join an online academy when it’s still in its beta stage? Here’s my honest answer:

Limited Spots, Lifetime Value: Right now, there are only a handful of spots open for beta testers, and this will be the lowest price point ever. Members who join now will be grandfathered in—meaning that price stays with you as long as you’re active.

Direct Access = Bigger Impact: During this building phase, I’m as accessible as I’ll ever be. Your feedback will shape our workshops, onboarding, and content. If you’ve ever wanted a say in the direction of an art community, this is your moment.

 In-the-Trenches Growth: It’s a rare chance to witness (and influence!) how a creative community and resource comes together, not just as a polished final product but as a living, evolving project.

Tools, Tech, and Lessons Learned

I’ve been learning the ins and outs of two main platforms: Kajabi (for course hosting and content) and GoBrunch (for live meetings and community gatherings). Unlike Zoom’s simplicity, GoBrunch offers a creative, customizable space—I love the way I’ve set it up, even if there’s a learning curve. Every day, I experiment and tweak: from sending better daily emails to crafting engaging daily updates.

I honestly believe that consistency is everything, not just in business, but in art. Like with watercolor: the more often you practice, the more natural water control and timing become. Even if you take breaks, your skills are ready to bounce back—just like riding a bike!

What’s Coming Up for Watercolor Wizardry

My immediate focus is on launching workshops that fit within larger collaborative events (like Faith’s “Best Summer Ever Bundle” – hint: free workshops for those who join the bundle!). I’m seeking your feedback at every stage—was the workshop helpful? What would you love to see next?

Behind all this, I’ve been recharging my creative batteries: photographing flowers and bumblebees around my house, trying (and occasionally failing) to film video updates in the face of relentless mosquitoes and wind on the lake. These little adventures (and mishaps!) will end up in emails, blogs, and maybe even a video podcast one day.

How to Stay Connected

If you’d like to join the journey, hop onto my newsletter at WatercolorWizardry.com. byt signing up to the Watercolor Wizardry Workshop Waitlist.  That’s where I share the real, daily updates—the wins, challenges, and lots of behind-the-scenes photos (flowers and all!). Blog readers and email subscribers get all the visual goodies.

Final Thoughts: The Beauty of Building in Public

Starting over takes courage, but there’s magic in sharing the imperfect, evolving process. My hope is that my story encourages you to pursue alignment over perfection, to practice your craft boldly and consistently, and to build community from the heart.

Thank you for walking this road alongside me. I can’t wait to see where Watercolor Wizardry (and your own artistic journey!) goes next.

With watercolor splashes and gratitude,
Zarah

Ready to join as a founding beta member or just want to follow along? Sign up at WatercolorWizardry.com!