Hi Everyone,
I wanted to share something that I think will lift your spirits and give you a fresh perspective on your watercolor journey. Bill Mollison, the co-founder of permaculture, once said something that really stuck with me: “The problem is the solution.”
Now, here’s the story behind that quote. Mollison was driving somewhere in Australia when he saw this huge patch of lantana—an invasive plant that spreads all over cow pastures. The cows don’t eat it, so it just keeps growing, making it hard for the grass to thrive. As they’re driving, he suddenly shouts, “Stop the car!” and jumps out.
In the middle of this lantana mess, he noticed something incredible: an apple tree, standing tall and healthy, completely surrounded by the lantana. Why? Because the cows couldn’t get to it. Someone had tossed an apple core into the pasture, and instead of being destroyed, the tree grew because the lantana was protecting it from the cows. The “problem” became the solution.
So what if we applied this same idea to watercolor? What if every mistake, every frustration you feel while painting, is actually part of the solution? Have you ever noticed how sometimes the thing that feels like a disaster—paint bleeding in a weird way, an unintended color mix—turns into the best part of the painting? I know I have.
Every painting, every practice session counts. Whether you're here to build new skills, deepen your knowledge of watercolor, stay motivated, or just have fun—each moment is moving you toward whatever goal you have in mind.
Next time you're struggling, remember the apple tree in the lantana. Your challenge might just be the thing that makes your painting even more special.
Looking forward to seeing what you create next!
Warmly,
Sansanee Boonyad
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