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In Episode 28 of the Wet on Wet Podcast, Sunil Kalbandi sits down with internationally acclaimed Scottish watercolour artist Angus McEwan for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation about drawing, observation, creativity, artistic growth, materials, technique, and the mindset required to build a meaningful life in art. Known for his extraordinary ability to transform ordinary subjects into compelling works of art, Angus has built an international reputation through paintings that celebrate texture, atmosphere, light, weathered surfaces, architecture, and the quiet beauty found in everyday objects. His work demonstrates an exceptional command of watercolour while remaining deeply rooted in drawing, observation, and visual storytelling. Angus shares the story of his artistic journey, beginning with a childhood passion for drawing, studying graphics and fine art, working in museums, teaching art for more than two decades, and eventually transitioning into full-time painting and online education. Along the way, he reflects on the experiences that shaped his artistic philosophy and helped him develop a distinctive voice as a painter. One of the most fascinating aspects of this conversation is Angus's perspective on watercolour itself. Rather than describing himself as a "watercolour artist," he explains why he sees himself as a painter who happens to use watercolour. This approach has allowed him to experiment freely with the medium, pushing beyond traditional methods and exploring techniques such as layering, lifting, stippling, spraying, collage, and texture-building. Throughout the episode, Angus discusses the importance of drawing as the foundation of successful painting. He shares how studying the work of great masters such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Rembrandt influenced his understanding of observation and draftsmanship. He also explains why strong drawing skills continue to play a central role in every painting he creates today. The conversation explores practical topics that artists of all levels struggle with. How do you improve your work? How do you stay motivated? How do you know when a painting is finished? What should you do when a painting starts going wrong? And is there any shortcut to becoming a better artist? For Angus, the answer often comes back to one simple principle: keep working, keep observing, and keep solving problems. Artists frequently want to start over whenever they encounter difficulties, but Angus argues that real growth happens when you work through those challenges. Mistakes become opportunities to learn, experiment, and discover new solutions that ultimately strengthen your artistic practice. We also dive into materials and process, discussing paper choices, framing, exhibition presentation, brushes, Daniel Smith watercolours, sketchbooks, composition studies, colour decisions, texture creation, and the role experimentation plays in maintaining excitement and growth throughout a long artistic career. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE • Why drawing is the foundation of strong painting • The importance of observation and learning to truly see • How Angus develops ideas and finds subjects to paint • Framing and presentation tips for exhibitions • Choosing watercolour paper, brushes, and materials • Why he prefers synthetic brushes over natural hair brushes • Creating texture and atmosphere in watercolour • The role of sketchbooks in the creative process • Learning from the Old Masters and studying great artists • Handling mistakes and difficult paintings • Motivation, consistency, and artistic growth • Watercolour techniques, layering, and experimentation • AI in art and the future of creativity • Practical advice for artists at every stage of their journey ABOUT ANGUS McEWAN Angus McEwan is an internationally acclaimed Scottish artist known for his highly detailed and atmospheric watercolour paintings. His work explores texture, light, weathered surfaces, architecture,

In Episode 27 of the Wet on Wet Podcast, Sunil Kalbandi sits down with acclaimed watercolor artist, educator, author, and workshop instructor Michael Gatlin for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation about drawing, watercolor, artistic growth, creativity, observation, and the mindset required to build a meaningful artistic life. Michael's journey into art began at a very young age. As a child, he was more interested in creating drawings than coloring someone else's. That early fascination with drawing eventually led him to watercolor, where he discovered a medium that felt alive, unpredictable, and endlessly exciting. Unlike mediums that stay exactly where you place them, watercolor challenged him with movement, spontaneity, and uncertainty — qualities that continue to inspire his work decades later. Throughout the conversation, Michael shares stories from every stage of his artistic journey: selling his first paintings while working at his father's gas station, traveling across America in a Volkswagen bus and funding his adventures through art sales, studying watercolor in art school, working as an art director, spending years in ministry as a pastor, and ultimately returning to art full-time. But more importantly, this episode explores the deeper questions many artists wrestle with: How do you improve? How do you develop confidence? How do you handle criticism? How do you stay motivated? And what role does art play in an increasingly technological world? For Michael, the answer often comes back to one simple principle: One principle sits at the heart of the conversation: Draw from life. Every day. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE • Why drawing is the foundation of strong painting • The importance of sketchbooks and daily practice • Learning to truly observe rather than assume • Painting from life versus working from photographs • Composition, values, and artistic design • Finding inspiration in everyday subjects • Building confidence and overcoming self-doubt • Handling criticism and artistic feedback • Journaling, creativity, and mindset • Teaching, learning, and continuous improvement • Thoughts on AI and the future of art • Why human creativity remains valuable in a digital age ABOUT MICHAEL GATLIN Michael Gatlin is an American watercolor artist, educator, workshop instructor, and author known for his strong emphasis on drawing fundamentals, observational skills, and artistic vision. Through workshops, teaching, and decades of professional experience, he has helped countless artists develop stronger foundations while encouraging them to discover their own creative voice. EXPLORE MICHAEL GATLIN Instagram: / jmichaelgatlin Website: https://www.jmichaelgatlin.com/ HOST — SUNIL KALBANDI Sunil Kalbandi is a watercolor artist, educator, and content creator passionate about helping artists learn through practical experience, observation, and meaningful conversations. Through the Wet on Wet Podcast, he connects with some of the world's leading watercolor artists to explore their journeys, creative philosophies, artistic struggles, and lessons that can help both beginners and experienced artists grow.

In Episode 26 of the Wet on Wet Podcast, Sunil Kalbandi sits down with internationally recognized watercolor artist Inga Buive for a thoughtful conversation about creativity, mindfulness, watercolor practice, and building a meaningful artistic life. Originally from Lithuania and now based in the UK, Inga is known for her calm, expressive watercolor paintings inspired by nature, mindfulness, and everyday observation. But her journey into art wasn’t traditional. Before becoming a full-time artist, Inga worked as a graphic designer and spent years away from painting. It was only during maternity leave — while looking for a creative outlet that fit around motherhood and daily life — that she discovered watercolor. What began as small daily exercises and tutorials slowly evolved into a creative practice that transformed her life. Over the years, she built a loyal global audience through social media, online teaching, books, Domestika courses, and a simple philosophy: Creativity should feel accessible, calming, and enjoyable — not overwhelming. This episode explores not just watercolor techniques, but the mindset behind consistency, creative growth, and finding joy in the process. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Journey & Career • Transitioning from graphic design into watercolor • Discovering watercolor during maternity leave • Starting with simple tutorials and daily practice • Building confidence through consistency • Growing an audience online while working a full-time job • Moving from hobbyist to full-time artist Mindfulness & Creative Practice • Why watercolor became a calming and therapeutic process • Connecting creativity with mindfulness • Using nature as inspiration and emotional grounding • Why creative hobbies are valuable even without professional goals • Creating art for joy rather than perfection Social Media & Growth • Building a large Instagram audience through consistency • Why relatable and simple content performs best • Creating tutorials that feel approachable for beginners • Balancing authenticity with social media trends • Helping people feel confident enough to start painting Teaching & Learning • Breaking watercolor into small, simple lessons • Why beginners struggle with overwhelm • The importance of repetition and practice • Learning through mistakes and experimentation • Teaching watercolor in a way that feels encouraging rather than intimidating Mindset & Consistency • How a background in competitive swimming shaped discipline • Why consistency matters more than natural talent • Staying motivated through bad paintings • Ending painting sessions on a positive note • Building long-term improvement through small daily practice Watercolor Techniques & Materials • Importance of paper quality in watercolor • Favorite papers: Arches, Canson Heritage, Saunders Waterford • Favorite paints: Daniel Smith and Winsor & Newton • Natural vs synthetic brushes and when to use each • Using texture, blooms, granulation, and contrast effectively • Why contrast is essential for stronger paintings Sketchbooks & Process • Using sketchbooks to experiment freely • Developing ideas before larger paintings • Solving compositions mentally before painting • Painting from observation and real-life references • Why sketchbooks help artists become more confident Creativity, Nature & Inspiration • Influence of Lithuanian culture and nature • Observing flowers, leaves, and seasonal changes • Using watercolor to connect with the natural world • Finding inspiration through travel, ceramics, photography, and everyday life Thoughts on AI & Handmade Art • Why human-made art still matters • The emotional connection behind handmade work • Using AI as a tool rather than a replacement for creativity • Why traditional crafts and handmade art are becoming more valuable ABOUT INGA BUIVE Inga Buive is a Lithuanian-born watercolor artist, illustrator, teacher, and author currently based in the UK. Her work combines expr

In Episode 25 of the Wet on Wet Podcast, Sunil Kalbandi sits down with internationally recognized watercolor artist Matt Gibbons for a thoughtful and honest conversation about art, storytelling, and navigating social media as a modern artist. Matt is a UK-based artist and illustrator known for his expressive watercolor and ink sketches, often created on location. His work focuses on documenting real life — capturing atmosphere, people, and the small details that tell bigger stories. His journey into art didn’t begin traditionally. Matt discovered watercolor during a trip to Lebanon, where he became fascinated by how sketching could be used to document the world in a direct and immediate way. Coming from a background in the non-profit sector, he has worked across countries like Thailand, Myanmar, Japan, and Taiwan — using art to illustrate real human stories, including work related to education and human rights. What started as carrying a sketchbook during travels slowly evolved into a full-time creative career. In 2019, he left his job to pursue art seriously, focusing on on-location painting and storytelling through sketchbooks. This episode explores not just his artistic journey — but the deeper question many artists face today: How do you stay true to your art in a world driven by social media? WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Journey & Career • Discovering watercolor through travel and observation • Transitioning from a non-art background into a creative career • Using sketchbooks to document real-world stories • Leaving a stable job in 2019 to pursue art full-time • Building a global audience through consistent sharing Storytelling Through Art • Using watercolor and ink as tools for visual storytelling • Capturing everyday life, people, and atmosphere • Drawing inspiration from travel and lived experiences • Documenting meaningful subjects, including social issues Process & Approach • Carrying a sketchbook everywhere and working on location • The immediacy and expressiveness of watercolor • Observing and simplifying real-world scenes • Creating work that feels raw, imperfect, and honest Social Media & Marketing • Keeping a rough plan instead of strict strategy • Sharing artwork process over polished promotion • Moving away from thinking “what will perform well online” • Creating art first, then thinking about posting • Using social media as a tool — not a direction Mindset & Growth • Balancing creativity with visibility • Letting go of performance pressure • Staying connected to why you create • Building a sustainable and authentic art practice Advice for Artists • Focus on observation and storytelling • Don’t let social media dictate your work • Carry a sketchbook and draw from life • Share your work, but don’t depend on validation 🎨 ABOUT MATT GIBBONS Matt Gibbons is a UK-based artist and illustrator who uses watercolor and ink to tell stories from around the world. His work blends urban sketching, documentary storytelling, and plein air painting, often capturing the hidden corners and everyday moments of the places he visits. With a background in the non-profit sector, his art often intersects with real-world narratives — making his work both expressive and meaningful. 🌐 EXPLORE MATT GIBBONS 📸 Instagram: / mattgibbonsstudio 🔗 All Links: https://linktr.ee/mattgibbonsstudio 🌍 Website: https://mattgibbonsstudio.com/ 📖 About: https://mattgibbonsstudio.com/about 🎓 Patreon (Courses & Tutorials): / mattgibbons 🎙️ ABOUT WET ON WET PODCAST Hosted by Sunil Kalbandi, the Wet on Wet Podcast features conversations with world-class watercolor artists — sharing their journeys, techniques, and philosophies to help artists grow beyond just tutorials. 🎧 AVAILABLE ON Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts 💬 JOIN THE CONVERSATION Do you create your art for yourself — or for social media? Drop your thoughts in the comments 👇

In Episode 24 of the Wet on Wet Podcast, Sunil Kalbandi sits down with internationally acclaimed watercolor artist Keiko Tanabe for a deep and honest conversation about art, growth, and the mindset behind becoming a professional artist. Born in Kyoto, Japan, Keiko grew up surrounded by culture and creativity. As a child, she loved drawing and even won art competitions, but later stepped away from art to pursue academics and a professional career. After moving to the United States for higher studies, she built a life outside the art world — yet the desire to paint never truly left. Years later, that inner pull brought her back to watercolor. What started as sketching during travels slowly turned into a serious pursuit. Eventually, she made the bold decision to leave a stable career and become a full-time artist — without knowing how it would work out. This episode is about that leap of faith, and everything that followed. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Journey & Career • Rediscovering art after years away • Transitioning from a secure job to full-time painting • Starting without an art degree or industry connections • Building an audience and selling work online in the early days • Growing through exhibitions, recognition, and consistency Impressionism & Style • Early influence of impressionist painters • Struggling to achieve a desired style in watercolor • Learning through mistakes and experimentation • How style develops gradually over time • Why consistency matters more than perfection Technique & Artistic Thinking • Understanding values (light and dark) as the foundation • Simplifying complex scenes instead of copying everything • Designing compositions based on intent • Painting light, mood, and atmosphere • Using color to express emotion Process & Approach • Painting outdoors (plein air) to improve speed and observation • Capturing changing light and real-life atmosphere • Combining sketches, memory, and references in studio work • Working quickly and intuitively through experience Mindset & Growth • “Don’t forget the beginner’s mind” • Practicing consistently and embracing repetition • Learning from bad paintings instead of fearing them • Overcoming creative blocks and self-doubt • Staying curious and avoiding complacency Advice for Artists • Focus on drawing and observation first • Take time to understand your intent before painting • Identify and overcome fear of mistakes • Paint what you feel connected to • Don’t chase validation — build your own voice Social Media & AI • Using social media as a tool for sharing, not validation • Avoiding distractions and comparison • Thoughts on AI in art and its growing influence • Importance of authenticity and human expression Materials & Tools • Paper: Arches (preferred), Saunders Waterford • Brushes: Escoda (round brushes, moving toward synthetic) • Palette: Limited colors (12–14), strong mixing approach • Style: Fast, expressive, and light-driven Explore Keiko Tanabe 🌐 Workshops & Website: https://www.ktanabefineart.com/workshops 📸 Instagram: / keikotanabewatercolor About Wet on Wet Podcast Hosted by Sunil Kalbandi, the Wet on Wet Podcast features conversations with world-class watercolor artists — sharing their journeys, techniques, and philosophies to help artists grow beyond just tutorials. Available On Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join the Conversation What is your biggest struggle in watercolor right now? Drop it in the comments — let’s learn and grow together. Tags keiko tanabe, watercolor podcast, watercolor techniques, impressionist watercolor, plein air painting, artist mindset, painting tips, wet on wet podcast, watercolor learning

In this deeply insightful and reflective episode of the Wet On Wet Podcast, host Sunil Kalbandi sits down with internationally acclaimed watercolor artist Ali Cavanaugh — known for her emotionally rich portraits, luminous skin tones, and her pioneering approach to watercolor on alternative surfaces. Ali’s journey is not just about mastering a medium, but about discovering an authentic artistic voice. From spending a decade working in oil painting to finding her true expression through watercolor, her story reflects the importance of experimentation, intuition, and listening to what genuinely resonates — both internally and with the audience. This conversation explores how artistic breakthroughs often come unexpectedly. A single watercolor experiment led to a powerful audience response that ultimately shifted the direction of her entire career, pushing her toward a medium that aligned more naturally with her strengths and vision. Ali also shares how limitations and challenges can become defining strengths. Her early experiences with hearing loss shaped her ability to observe people deeply, influencing her focus on portraiture and emotional expression. Her work today reflects a strong connection to human presence, subtle expressions, and the inner life of her subjects. A major part of the discussion focuses on her exploration of alternative surfaces such as Aquaboard and clayboard. This shift not only solved practical challenges in presenting watercolor work but also opened new creative possibilities — allowing her to layer, lift, and manipulate paint in ways traditional paper does not allow. The episode also dives into the difference between illustration and fine art. Ali explains how illustration often involves external direction, while fine art is driven by an internal need to express something personal. This distinction became a turning point in her career, guiding her toward creating work that reflects her own story rather than fulfilling external briefs. Beyond technique, this conversation is a powerful reminder that artistic growth is a long-term process. Ali emphasizes the importance of drawing fundamentals, understanding values, and consistently practicing over time. Mastery, according to her, comes not from shortcuts but from years of dedication and exploration. The discussion also touches on the realities of building a career in art — from gallery representation to selling work independently, and navigating social media. Ali shares an honest perspective on how platforms like Instagram are essential for visibility, but authenticity remains the key factor in building a meaningful connection with an audience. At its core, this episode is about honesty in art — creating from a place of genuine curiosity, emotion, and personal experience. It highlights that while techniques and tools may evolve, the true power of art lies in its ability to reflect the human experience. Guest — Ali Cavanaugh Website: https://www.alicavanaugh.com/ Instagram: / _alicavanaugh_ Profession: Fine Artist Medium: Watercolor (Alternative Surfaces) Known For: • Luminous watercolor portraits • Modern fresco technique on clay and panel surfaces • Emotion-driven figurative work • Pioneering watercolor beyond traditional paper Host — Sunil Kalbandi Podcast: Wet On Wet Podcast Key Insights & Quotes from Ali Cavanaugh “You have to be honest with what you’re painting.” “I had something in me that I wanted to say.” “You have to paint what genuinely interests you — that’s what sustains you for life.” “Your work is a reflection of your entire life journey.” “Honesty in art is what people connect with.” Topics & Creative Ideas Discussed Finding Your Artistic Voice Ali explains how discovering your voice is not something you decide instantly, but something that emerges over time through experimentation, curiosity, and honest self-expression. Artists who rely only on external inspiration may progress temporarily, but long-term growt

In this insightful and grounded episode of the Wet On Wet Podcast, host Sunil Kalbandi sits down with Indian watercolor artist Vikrant Shitole — known for his expressive watercolor landscapes, strong sense of atmosphere, and a contemporary approach to sharing art through digital platforms. Vikrant represents a generation of artists who have witnessed the dramatic transformation of the creative world through social media, digital tools, and now artificial intelligence. In this conversation, he reflects honestly on how artists can navigate this rapidly evolving landscape while staying rooted in craftsmanship and authentic artistic practice. The discussion explores the double-edged nature of social media — a powerful tool that can give artists global exposure, yet also create the illusion that success comes quickly or easily. Vikrant emphasizes that while platforms can amplify visibility, real recognition still comes from years of dedicated practice, unique artistic voice, and consistent work. The conversation also dives into the growing presence of AI in creative industries such as animation, photography, modeling, and visual art. Vikrant shares a balanced perspective: technology will continue to evolve, but the human understanding of aesthetics, emotion, and artistic sensitivity will remain irreplaceable. This episode is a thoughtful reflection on how artists can embrace modern tools without losing sight of the fundamentals that make art meaningful. Guest — Vikrant Shitole Instagram: / vikrantdshitole Profession: Watercolor Artist Medium: Watercolor Known For: • Expressive watercolor landscapes • Atmospheric and nature-inspired compositions • Teaching and inspiring artists through workshops and online platforms • Using social media to connect with a global art community Based in: India Host — Sunil Kalbandi Website: https://kalbandi.com Instagram: / sunilkalbandi Podcast: Wet On Wet Podcast Key Insights & Quotes from Vikrant Shitole “Social media is a gift — but it’s also an ocean of information.” “If you want to succeed, focus on your main work first — your art.” “Followers don’t make you an artist. Your work does.” “Technology will keep changing, but aesthetics will always remain.” “You should evolve with time, but don’t rely completely on technology.” “Hard work is still the most important thing in any creative field.” Topics & Creative Ideas Discussed Social Media & the Artist Vikrant discusses how social media has transformed the art world by making it possible for artists to share their work globally without relying solely on galleries or traditional institutions. However, he also warns about the misconception that visibility equals mastery. Behind every successful artist or content creator is a long period of disciplined practice and dedication. Artists must learn to filter the overwhelming amount of information online and focus on what genuinely helps their growth. The Illusion of Instant Fame Many emerging artists believe that simply posting regularly on social media will lead to fame. Vikrant explains why this idea is misleading. Recognition comes from developing a unique visual language, building strong fundamentals, and consistently producing meaningful work. Social media can amplify success — but it cannot replace the years of learning required to become a strong artist. AI & The Future of Creative Work The discussion turns toward artificial intelligence and its growing impact across creative industries. Vikrant shares how fields like animation, photography, modeling, and digital content creation are already being influenced by AI tools. Yet history shows that new technology rarely eliminates art — it simply changes the tools artists use. When photography was invented, many believed portrait painters would disappear. When computers arrived, similar fears emerged. But artistic expression continued to evolve. The fundamental understanding of aesthetics, composition, and

In this expansive and deeply reflective episode of the Wet On Wet Podcast, host Sunil Kalbandi sits down with internationally acclaimed watercolor artist, architect, and author Thomas W. Schaller — widely recognized for his dramatic architectural cityscapes, masterful command of light and shadow, and emotionally charged interpretations of the built environment. Thomas’s journey is anything but conventional. Born in rural Ohio in the 1950s, raised in a conservative farming culture that did not encourage ambition or artistic aspiration, he dreamed from the age of seven of becoming an artist and living in New York City. That early declaration — seemingly impossible at the time — became the quiet compass that guided his life. In this conversation, Thomas shares how discovering books featuring Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keeffe, and other American masters planted the seed of possibility. He speaks candidly about studying architecture as both a practical decision and a deeper exploration of how buildings serve as containers of human stories. After building a successful architectural career, Thomas made the courageous decision — in his 50s — to redefine himself as a fine artist. What followed was not overnight success, but years of disciplined painting, rejection, persistence, and self-definition. This episode explores far more than technique. It is about identity, authenticity, emotional storytelling, creative courage, and the long arc of becoming who you believe you are. At its core, this is a conversation about designing your own life. Thomas speaks candidly about: Growing up in a conservative farming community and dreaming of becoming an artist Discovering art through books featuring Edward Hopper and Georgia O’Keeffe Studying architecture as both a practical path and a deeper exploration of the built environment Leaving a successful architectural career in his 50s to pursue fine art full-time The mentorship moment with Joseph Zbukvic that changed his life Defining yourself as an artist before you “deserve” the title At its core, this episode is about designing your own life — creatively and courageously. 🎨 Guest — Thomas W. Schaller Website: https://www.thomasschaller.com/ Facebook: / thomaswschaller Instagram: / thomaswschaller X (Twitter): https://x.com/twschaller Profession: Watercolor Artist, Architect, Author Medium: Watercolor Style: Architectural cityscapes, expressive realism, emotional urban narrative Known For: • Dramatic light-and-shadow contrasts • Strong architectural drawing and perspective • Emotional storytelling through cityscapes • Masterful graded washes and edge control • Blending architecture and human experience • International workshops and exhibitions Based in: New York City, USA 🎙️ Host — Sunil Kalbandi Website: https://kalbandi.com Instagram: / sunilkalbandi Podcast: Wet On Wet Podcast Key Insights & Quotes from Thomas W. Schaller “You have to define yourself as an artist before you deserve the title.” “Don’t paint objects. Paint the human experience of a thing.” “Value does all the work. Color gets all the credit.” “Zoom in. Closer is almost always stronger.” “Maximize your joy. The joyful paintings are the ones people respond to.” “If a painting fails, don’t analyze it for a week. Just do another one.” Techniques & Creative Principles Discussed Painting cities as emotional experiences rather than architectural objects. Using intention-first design: Define the emotional intention Solve composition Design values Decide the color story Working primarily in three value groups (light, midtone, dark) before introducing color. Using graded washes and gravity to create fluid transitions. Standing while painting to engage the whole body in brush movement. Zooming in to create intimacy and stronger storytelling. Editing brush marks to avoid overworking. Building authenticity rather than copying admired artists. AI, ethics, and preserving human authors

In this thoughtful and deeply grounded episode of the Wet On Wet Podcast, host Sunil Kalbandi sits down with Kathleen Giles, a highly acclaimed American watercolorist and educator celebrated for her luminous realism, vivid storytelling, and dramatic use of light and value. Kathleen’s journey is anything but conventional. An art school dropout who married young and raised three sons while navigating financial hardship, she built her career through persistence, rejection, experimentation, and relentless practice. Over time, she evolved from painting local canal scenes in Western New York to earning national recognition, judging major exhibitions, and becoming a sought-after instructor across the United States. In this episode, Kathleen speaks candidly about growth, originality, discipline, and the mindset required to sustain a long creative life. She explains why she doesn’t begin a painting until she can clearly visualize it, why strong value structure matters more than color alone, and why artists must eventually stop copying others and start painting their own lives. This conversation moves beyond surface technique and into artistic maturity — exploring storytelling, composition clarity, material choices, teaching philosophy, and the courage required to develop your own voice. Guest — Kathleen Giles Website: https://www.kgilesstudio.com Instagram: / kathleen_giles Profession: Watercolor Artist, Educator Style: Luminous realism, narrative figurative work Host — Sunil Kalbandi Website: https://kalbandi.com Instagram: / sunilkalbandi Podcast: Wet On Wet Podcast Key Insights from Kathleen Giles Don’t be intimidated by anyone. Do your own thing. You have to paint your own life. I don’t start painting until I know what I want it to look like. Strong paintings require light, medium, and dark. Put the dark in — then build your middle values to stand up to it. You can’t be afraid to ruin a painting. Just paint. Paint a lot. Teaching forces you to understand what you’re doing. Techniques & Artistic Principles Discussed Seeing Before Painting Developing visualization skills and planning compositions with intention. Value Over Color Understanding light, middle tones, and darks as the structural backbone of a painting. Light-to-Dark Workflow Working transparently while anchoring compositions with confident dark placements. Originality & Personal Narrative Moving from imitation to storytelling rooted in lived experience. Mixing Blacks & Neutrals Creating richer shadows by mixing chromatic blacks instead of relying on tube grays. Material Awareness Understanding staining vs non-staining pigments, transparency, layering, and granulation. Learning Through Rejection Entering competitions, building credibility, and developing resilience. Teaching as Growth Why explaining fundamentals strengthens your own mastery. Materials & Studio Approach Mentioned • Arches Cold Press 300 lb paper • Professional-grade paints (Daniel Smith, Winsor & Newton, QoR) • Custom mixed blacks using triad-based color combinations • Staining pigments for layered glazing • Filbert brushes for soft transitions in skin tones • Large wash brushes for blocking in • Digital projector for layout accuracy • Photoshop Elements for composition planning • Allowing paints to set before use for higher pigment concentration

In this thoughtful and deeply grounded episode of the Wet On Wet Podcast, host Sunil Kalbandi sits down with Adrián Marmolejo, an internationally respected Spanish watercolor artist known for his powerful cityscapes, architectural clarity, and disciplined approach to watercolor as a thinking process rather than a decorative medium. Adrián’s journey spans early classical training, architectural education, years of plein air painting, competitions, teaching, and large-scale studio work. In this conversation, he explains why he believes that painting is ultimately a problem you have to solve, and how style emerges naturally from years of practice, observation, and decision-making — not from copying or shortcuts. This episode moves beyond trends and surface-level techniques, focusing instead on fundamentals such as drawing, perspective, tonal control, simplification, and the mental discipline required to grow as a watercolor artist over time. It’s an honest, experience-driven discussion that will resonate deeply with artists at every stage of their journey. Guest — Adrián Marmolejo Website: https://adrianmarmolejo.com Instagram: / adrianmc_art Profession: Watercolor Artist, Educator Medium: Watercolor Style: Architectural figurative watercolor, tonal realism Known For: • Large-scale watercolor cityscapes • Strong architectural perspective and depth • Tone-first approach over color • Painting wet-on-wet on massive formats • Treating painting as a structured problem-solving process • Clear, fundamentals-based teaching philosophy Based in: Granada, Spain 🎙️ Host — Sunil Kalbandi Website: https://kalbandi.com Instagram: / sunilkalbandi Podcast: Wet On Wet Podcast Key Insights & Reflections from Adrián Marmolejo “Painting is a problem you have to solve.” “Style is simply your personal way of solving those problems.” “Drawing is the skeleton of painting.” “Tone is more important than color.” “You don’t need more colors — you need clearer values.” “Perspective doesn’t forgive mistakes.” “Practice is what turns chaos into clarity.” “Physical watercolor work becomes more valuable in a digital age.” Techniques, Principles & Artistic Philosophy Discussed Painting as problem-solving — approaching every painting as a series of decisions involving composition, values, perspective, and simplification. Drawing & perspective fundamentals — why strong drawing is essential for figurative and cityscape painters, regardless of style. Tone over color — focusing on values, grays, and light relationships rather than excessive color palettes. Two-layer watercolor thinking — using light and medium values first, followed by shadows to connect the painting. Simplification through contrast — deciding what to include, what to leave out, and how shadows help organize complexity. Large-scale watercolor practice — working wet-on-wet on massive formats and adapting tools, brushes, and materials accordingly. Style through practice — how copying evolves into personal language over thousands of hours of painting. Art school relevance — why mastering basics first is essential before chasing conceptual or stylistic freedom. AI & the future of art — why physical, handcrafted watercolor still matters in a digital world. Materials & Approach Mentioned in the Episode • Watercolor as a transparent, decision-driven medium • Reduced color palette focused on tonal variation • Two-layer wet-on-wet process • Large brushes for structure, smaller brushes for clarity • Perspective-led composition • Arches & Saunders Waterford paper • Physical painting as a long-term artistic practice

In this thoughtful and deeply grounded episode of the Wet On Wet Podcast, host Sunil Kalbandi sits down with internationally respected watercolor artist and educator Lana Privitera — widely known for her clear teaching philosophy, expressive yet controlled watercolor work, and decades of experience guiding artists toward deeper understanding rather than surface-level technique. Lana’s journey in watercolor spans years of disciplined practice, teaching, experimentation, and reflection. In this conversation, she speaks openly about what happens when watercolor doesn’t flow the way we expect — what she describes as painting on the bumpy side. Rather than fighting resistance, Lana shares how learning to slow down, observe, and respond thoughtfully can transform both the painting and the painter. This episode moves beyond shortcuts and stylistic trends, focusing instead on patience, clarity of seeing, material understanding, and the quiet mindset required to grow in watercolor over time. It’s a calm, honest discussion that will resonate deeply with artists at every stage of their journey. 🎨 Guest — Lana Privitera Website: https://www.lanaprivitera.com Instagram: / lanaprivitera Profession: Watercolor Artist, Educator Medium: Watercolor Style: Observational, expressive realism Known For: • Thoughtful, process-driven watercolor approach • Clear articulation of watercolor fundamentals • Teaching patience, observation, and material awareness • Emphasis on values, edges, and restraint • Encouraging long-term artistic growth over quick results Based in: United States 🎙️ Host — Sunil Kalbandi Website: https://kalbandi.com Instagram: / sunilkalbandi Podcast: Wet On Wet Podcast 💬 Key Insights & Reflections from Lana Privitera “Watercolor teaches us to slow down and really see.” “When things don’t go smoothly, that’s where learning begins.” “You don’t need to force the paint — you need to understand it.” “Patience is not optional in watercolor.” “The surface will tell you what it needs, if you listen.” “Painting isn’t about control alone — it’s about response.” “Mistakes often reveal what we haven’t fully understood yet.” 🧠 Techniques, Principles & Artistic Philosophy Discussed Painting on the bumpy side — understanding uneven surfaces, resistance, and unpredictability as essential parts of watercolor rather than problems to avoid. Observation before action — slowing down to truly see values, edges, and relationships before placing paint. Responding instead of forcing — adjusting decisions based on what the paper and pigment are doing in the moment. Patience as a skill — developing restraint and timing rather than rushing toward finished results. Letting go of perfection — focusing on clarity and honesty instead of overworking a painting. Teaching through fundamentals — why strong basics outlast trends, styles, and shortcuts. Long-term growth — building a sustainable watercolor practice rooted in understanding rather than quick wins. 🖌️ Materials & Approach Mentioned in the Episode • Watercolor as a responsive, transparent medium • Emphasis on paper behavior and surface awareness • Value control and edge handling • Minimal forcing and overcorrection • Thoughtful pacing throughout the painting process

In this deeply reflective episode of the Wet On Wet Podcast, host Sunil Kalbandi sits down with internationally respected watercolor realist Matthew Bird — a professional fine artist, educator, and workshop instructor known for his meticulous realism, narrative-driven still lifes, and uncompromising discipline in watercolor. Matthew shares his journey from a childhood rooted in drawing and visual thinking to formal fine art education at Pratt Institute, and eventually to walking away from a successful creative agency career to pursue painting full-time. This conversation goes far beyond technique — it explores conviction, risk, perseverance, the business realities of art, and what it truly means to “show up” every day as a working artist. This episode is an honest, grounded look at the slow, disciplined path of mastery, and a must-watch for artists navigating realism, career transitions, and long-term creative sustainability. 🎨 Guest — Matthew Bird Website: https://matthewbird.com Instagram: / matthewbirdart YouTube: / @matthewbirdart Profession: Professional Watercolor Artist, Educator, Workshop Instructor Medium: Watercolor (exclusively) Style: Contemporary realism / narrative still life Known For: • Hyper-detailed watercolor realism • Story-driven still life compositions • Slow, deliberate painting process (80–100+ hours per work) • Teaching realism, discipline, and problem-solving in watercolor Based in: Maryland, USA 🎙️ Host — Sunil Kalbandi Website: https://kalbandi.com Instagram: / sunilkalbandi Podcast: Wet On Wet Podcast 💬 Key Insights & Quotes from Matthew Bird “Watercolor is the only medium I work in — it just feels like home.” “I’m a slow painter. That’s who I am, and I’ve learned to respect it.” “Inspiration is for amateurs. Professionals show up and work.” “This is a business — not just painting feelings and hoping people pay.” “Perseverance can save a painting that feels like it’s failing.” “I don’t paint what I think will sell — I paint what I love.” “Every object in my still life is a character in a story.” “Realism in watercolor is problem-solving — again and again.” “You don’t need perfection to succeed. You need conviction and consistency.” 🧠 Techniques, Principles & Creative Philosophy Discussed Watercolor realism as problem-solving — planning like a chess game, anticipating moves, and addressing the hardest passages early. Narrative still life construction — treating objects as characters and building intentional visual stories. Slow painting discipline — embracing long timelines (80–100 hours per painting) as a strength, not a weakness. Composition without value sketches — relying on decades of design and illustration experience to compose intuitively. Perseverance over perfection — fixing, adapting, and finishing rather than abandoning difficult works. Business mindset for artists — understanding feast-and-famine cycles, multiple income streams, and financial planning. Showing up physically — exhibitions, competitions, and community as catalysts for career growth. Breaking away from 9–5 creativity — navigating fear, risk, and identity shifts when choosing art full-time. Learning differences & dyslexia — how visual thinking shaped Matthew’s artistic strengths. Technology & AI perspective — embracing tools while preserving human authorship and authenticity. 🖌️ Materials Mentioned in the Episode Watercolors: Daniel Smith Professional Watercolors Brushes: Escoda Perla (synthetic rounds), select flats Paper: Fabriano Artistico, Cold Press, 300 lb (600 gsm) Surface Prep: No stretching (heavyweight paper preference) Varnish: Golden Archival Varnish (spray seal + brushed topcoat) Painting Position: Mostly flat; occasional incline or vertical for large works

In this deeply insightful episode of the Wet On Wet Podcast, host Sunil Kalbandi sits down with internationally acclaimed watercolor artist Anna Zadorozhnaya — a Schmincke brand ambassador and Da Vinci Brushes ambassador, professional educator, and author known for her breathtaking snowy mountain landscapes. Anna shares her remarkable journey from being a 100% self-taught beginner to becoming one of the most respected voices in contemporary watercolor. This conversation goes far beyond technique — it explores patience, discipline, artistic honesty, and what it truly takes to build a sustainable life as an artist. Guest — Anna Zadorozhnaya Instagram: / draw_better YouTube: / @draw_better Brand Ambassador: Schmincke & Da Vinci Brushes Profession: Professional Watercolor Artist, Educator, Author Specialty: Snowy mountain landscapes & expressive watercolor textures Based in: Germany Host — Sunil Kalbandi Website: https://kalbandi.com Instagram: / sunilkalbandi Key Insights & Quotes from Anna Zadorozhnaya “When I painted with watercolor for the first time, my heart said yes.” “I’m 100% self-taught — and that’s why I understand beginners so well.” “Every time you can do better. That’s why my nickname is draw better.” “Watercolor decides sometimes — you just accept it and move on.” “Most beginner paintings fail because artists are afraid of tone.” “Motivation doesn’t work. Discipline, patience, and regularity do.” “Granulation is the easiest way to add texture without extra effort.” “Every talented artist can succeed — but only with patience and hard work.” Techniques, Materials & Elements Discussed Tone-first thinking — courage with darker values matters more than technical skill. Light awareness in references — choosing photos with a single, clear light source avoids flat results. Granulation as a design tool — super-granulating pigments create texture without overworking. Landscape-first learning — landscapes forgive drawing errors better than figures or architecture. Staged painting approach — wash first, pause, reflect, then continue over time if needed. Stop vs abandon — knowing when to finish and when letting go is the right decision. Brand relationship building — value exchange with art brands through testing and feedback. Teaching mindset — being self-taught helps recognize beginner struggles quickly. Materials consistency — using the same tools removes decision fatigue. Content workflow — balancing painting, teaching, and social media realities. Materials Mentioned in the Episode Watercolors — Schmincke (including Super Granulating series) Brushes — Da Vinci Casaneo, Colineo, X-Point (synthetic preference) Paper — Hahnemühle Collection Watercolor, 100% cotton, 300 gsm Formats — sketchbooks, medium works, half-sheet & large-scale paintings

In this powerful fourteenth episode of the Wet on Wet podcast, host Sunil Kalbandi sits down with one of India’s most influential watercolor ambassadors — Amit Kapoor. From humble beginnings in Delhi to becoming President of the International Watercolor Society (India), global workshop leader, brand ambassador, educator, curator, and author, Amit shares the remarkable journey that reshaped India’s watercolor landscape. With rare honesty, Amit discusses the real foundations of great painting: disciplined drawing, thousands of repetitions, relentless practice, and the importance of studying true masters instead of chasing trends or social-media validation. Listeners will learn how classical animation shaped his perspective, why live sketching matters more than copying photos, how to build visual judgment, and why subtle, international color sensibilities transformed his work. This episode is a rich masterclass in artistic mindset, perseverance, composition, perspective, and the power of consistent practice. Artists of all levels — especially those struggling with direction, motivation, or fundamentals — will find deep guidance and inspiration from one of the most respected voices in contemporary watercolor. 🌟 Guest – Amit Kapoor Website: https://www.amitkapoorwatercolor.com Instagram: / artist_amitkapoor Facebook: / amit.kapoor.artist YouTube: / @amitkapoorartist Book – Mastering Watercolors: https://www.amitkapoorwatercolor.com/... 🖌️ Host – Sunil Kalbandi Website: https://kalbandi.com Instagram: / sunilkalbandi YouTube: / sunilkalbandi Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... Key Insights & Quotes from Amit Kapoor “If your drawing is not good, color will never save your painting.” “We all have 10,000 bad drawings — finish them fast.” “Originals are originals. AI cannot replace the human hand.” “Don’t follow popularity. Follow the masters.” “Paper first, pigment second, brushes third. Surface is everything.” “There is no shortcut. Art needs daily practice, just like breathing.” “A strong perspective and clear composition decide the painting before color arrives.” 🎨 Techniques, Principles & Topics Discussed Drawing Discipline & Animation Influence Learning from classical animation: line of action, gesture, top-view perspectives. Importance of drawing thousands of sketches — fast, live, imperfect. Why copying Google photos stunts growth. Fundamentals Over Fashion Tone, composition, and structure before color. Building the ability to see good work before painting good work. Why subtle, broken, mixed colors create international sensibilities. Indian Watercolor Evolution How Amit helped revive watercolor culture in India since 2012. The challenge of standing out when many artists use “factory-like” raw colors. Breaking away from regional stylistic habits. Mindset & Career Growth Healthy competition, discipline, and lifelong consistency. Why overpricing early work is a common mistake. Using social media wisely & selectively. Materials & Tools Favorite papers: Bohem (top choice), Saunders, Lana, Arches (declining). Mission/Mijello pigments — especially new granulated series. Escoda signature brushes + Chinese brushes (strengths & limitations). Why paper quality changes the entire game. AI & The Future of Art How AI affects design/advertising — but not original hand-painted art. Value of being physically present at locations you paint. Workshops & Global Travel Teaching across the US, Europe, Mexico, Peru, Argentina, Italy, Bulgaria. Upcoming workshops primarily announced on Instagram.

Explore the art of truthful watercolor painting with British artist Andrew Pitt. In this episode of Wet on Wet, host Sunil Kalbandi uncovers six decades of plein-air wisdom—covering tone, edges, drawing, and the mindset behind honest, lively watercolor work. Learn how to simplify compositions, paint confidently in one stroke, and build tonal strength while preserving freshness. Ideal for watercolor beginners and experienced painters seeking timeless guidance from one of England’s most respected teachers. In this insightful thirteenth episode of the Wet on Wet podcast, host Sunil Kalbandi sits down with celebrated British watercolorist Andrew Pitt for an absorbing conversation on the timeless principles of painting with simplicity, truth, and character. With over sixty years of plein-air experience along the East Anglian coast, Andrew shares his quietly radical philosophy: that freshness, honesty, and deliberate mark-making matter far more than perfection or fashion. From his childhood fascination with local barges in Maldon (Essex) to a lifetime of teaching and painting the luminous marshes and skies of Suffolk, Andrew reflects on closing the lifelong gap between vision and execution. He offers deeply practical wisdom for watercolor artists—covering drawing discipline, tonal awareness, edges, composition, and the elusive “once-only” brushstroke that keeps a painting alive. Listeners will find this episode a grounded masterclass in watercolor fundamentals—infused with humor, humility, and decades of painterly truth. Guest – Andrew Pitt Website: https://www.andrewpitt.co.uk Instagram: / andrewpittartist 🖌️ Host – Sunil Kalbandi Website: https://kalbandi.com Instagram: / sunilkalbandi YouTube: / sunilkalbandi Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... Key Insights and Quotes from Andrew Pitt “Every mark you make is drawing—it just has to be in the right place.” “Tone and drawing do the hard work; color gets the glory.” “Paint once, as carefully as you can. That’s how you keep watercolor alive.” “Freshness comes from confidence, not looseness.” “A painting should suggest—let the viewer finish it in their own imagination.” “The only real competition in painting is with yourself.” Techniques, Materials & Principles Discussed Tone & value discipline — why tonal control outweighs color choice in impact. Edges & variety — soft, sharp, broken, and fuzzy edges as expressive tools. Drawing as foundation — how continual sketching builds accuracy and confidence. Simplifying subjects — choosing scenes for structure and avoiding early over-complexity. “Once-only” brushwork — finishing each area decisively to preserve life and intent. Warm vs cool light — observing temperature shifts to convey time of day and mood. Correcting & accepting mistakes — how “redeeming defects” add authenticity. Influence & individuality — painting true to your temperament and environment rather than trends.