Give It a Try !

Why Trying Something New Sparks Creativity

A Watercolor Story from Aloha Art Experiences

Creativity has a funny way of asking us to step outside our comfort zones. Sometimes the biggest spark comes from simply trying something new.

As a someone who owns an art studio, many people assume I’ve explored many art mediums. But the truth is, I'm just really getting started in learning new skills and up until just a few weeks ago, I had never truly experimented with watercolors.

Like many of us, I had the typical elementary school experience with those little chalky paint trays and a plastic brush. But as an adult artist? Watercolor was something I had never really tried.

Finding My Creative Comfort Zone

Years ago, I had what can only be described as an epic failure with oil paints. The process felt messy, frustrating, and far from the joyful creative experience I was looking for. After that, I discovered the mediums that truly clicked for me—acrylics and enamels.

Those paints opened the door to the painting that I love: creating fun, expressive art on canvas and glass. Bright colors, playful designs, and art that makes people smile.

Still, watercolors always lingered quietly in the back of my mind.

A Simple 10-Minute Art Challenge

Recently, I decided it was time to stop wondering and just try.

I gave myself a challenge: 10 minutes. No pressure. No expectations. (Thanks P'zazz Art Studio!)

For my first watercolor experiment, I painted the front of a vintage VW Bug, surrounded by big, groovy 1960s-style flowers. Nothing fancy—just something playful and colorful.

And you know what?

It worked.

Not in a “museum masterpiece” way—but in the most important way. It was a success. A simple success.

Sample of my watercolor painting with a nod to P'zazz Art Studio. Thanks for the Inspo.

Watercolors behave differently than acrylics. The paint flows, the colors blend unexpectedly, and sometimes the water has its own ideas about where the color should go. Instead of controlling every brushstroke, I had to let go a little and enjoy the process.

And that’s where the magic happened.

Creativity Grows When We Try New Things

That little 10-minute experiment reminded me of something I see all the time in the studio.

People often walk in saying:"I’m not artistic.""I’ve never done this before.""I’m afraid I’ll mess it up."

But once they start, something amazing happens.

They relax.They experiment.They surprise themselves. It's what we call the "aha" moment.

Trying something new doesn’t mean mastering it right away. Sometimes the goal is simply to experience the joy of creating.

Ready to Try Something New?

If you’ve been thinking about exploring your creative side, this might be your sign.

At Aloha Art Experiences near Smith Mountain Lake, we’re always adding new art experiences designed for beginners and seasoned creators alike.

Some of our newest creative adventures include:

Crushed Glass Art – Design beautiful shimmering artwork using crushed glass and resin. Painting on Glass – Create colorful designs on wine glasses, beer steins, and glass water containers. Cowboy Hat Bar – Paint and embellish your own cowboy hat with bands, charms, feathers, and unique designs.

Every experience includes all supplies, guided instruction, and plenty of room for creativity.

You don’t need to be an artist.You just need to be willing to dip your toes into something new.

Who knows? Your own “10-minute experiment” might turn into your next favorite creative outlet.

✨ Come create with us at Aloha Art Experiences and discover just how fun trying something new can be.