About

Hi, I'm Alyssa!

Watercolor artist, former elementary art teacher, and forever believer that you can make art you’re proud of.

The Heart Behind What I Do

As a kid, I was always trying to get my friends to make art with me. I had a craft cupboard full of supplies and an open invitation to create—no pressure, no perfection, just the joy of making something together.

But as we grew up, I started noticing something:

My friends began deciding whether or not they were “an artist.”

And once they made that decision, it stuck. Some kept creating. Others never picked up a pencil or paintbrush again.

After I left my position in the public school elementary art classroom, I began teaching adults. And I kept hearing the same heartbreaking stories:
"An art teacher told me my drawing was bad."
"I was told I wasn't creative."
"I never felt good at it, so I stopped."
These comments often came from grade school experiences, but the impact lasted decades.

As a former elementary art teacher myself, that hit me hard. I saw firsthand how deeply kids internalize the words we say about their art. And I knew I wanted to be part of changing that narrative.

That breaks my heart. And it’s why I do what I do.

Since 2023, you've been able to learn from me through social media channels like instagram and youtube. I share quick and approachable tutorials because I know that when you feel successful, you're more motivated to keep painting.

In 2024 I created another way to learn, the Whetstone Watercolor Academy. This collection of online courses provides a way for you to discover the joys of watercolor wherever you are in creative journey. You'll find my teaching approachable and knowledgable as I guide you in your creative endeavors. 

Let’s Get You Painting

Whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or the first time in years, you’re welcome here.

If you're looking for someone to cheer you on all while giving you concrete, helpful advice to find success in your watercolor journey, you're in the right place.

You can make art—and you just might love it.

Stay Creative!

-Alyssa