Craftonians! ✨ In Episode 60, Joleen shares joyful updates—from surprise art book treasures to celebrating her spot in the Minnesota State Fair Fine Arts Collection—before chatting with UK watercolor artist Kate Rebecca Leech. Kate reveals how lockdown reignited her passion, her leap from corporate life to creative freedom, and why her abstract, gold-embellished style is perfect for messy makers. This episode overflows with inspiration, laughter, and the magic of happy accidents.

Guest Bio

Kate Rebecca Leach is a UK watercolor artist, founder of A Solo Designs, and author of Creative Abstract Watercolor. Since rediscovering painting in lockdown, she’s sold worldwide, led global art retreats, and shown that anyone—messy or not—can create beautiful art.

Follow Kate

• Website
• Instagram 
• TikTok
• Pinterest
• Threads
• Facebook

Episode Chapters with Timestamps

[00:00 – 08:09] – Welcome & Small-Town Art Book Treasures
[08:10 – 13:59] – Introducing Kate Rebecca Leach
[14:00 – 18:19] – The Joy of Abstract Watercolor & Messy Making
[18:20 – 22:04] – Limited Color Palettes & Happy Accidents
[22:05 – 25:14] – Painting as a Tool for Managing Anxiety
[25:15 – 29:39] – Embracing Constraints to Spark Creativity
[29:40 – 34: 09] – Why Perfectionism Holds Artists Back
[34:10 – 39:54] – How Travel & Nature Inspire Kate’s Work
[39:55 – 44:29] – Teaching Art Retreats & Building Community
[44:30 – 49:14] – Behind the Scenes of Writing Creative Abstract Watercolor
[49:15 – 52:59] – Kate’s Upcoming Projects & Exciting Announcements
[53:00 – End] – Final Words of Encouragement for Aspiring Artists

Quotes from the Episode

“Art is less about the final piece and more about who you become while making it.” – Kate Rebecca Leach
“You don’t have to be perfect to make something beautiful.” – Kate Rebecca Leach
“Every brushstroke is a little act of bravery.” – Kate Rebecca Leach
“If it brings you joy, it’s worth creating.” – Kate Rebecca Leach

Resources and Links:

📖 Pre-order Kate's newest book Creative Abstract Mixed Media
🛒 Kate's Etsy Shop, use code CRAFTCAST to get 10% off
🖌️ Kate's Favorite Tools: Windsor Newton & Daniel Smith watercolor, Posca Paint Pen 0.7mm, Uniball Signo Pen

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