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Hello

Watercolor is my happy place - and my favorite way to connect with people. One brushstroke was all it took to hook me: the glow of color, the splash of water, the thrill of not being fully in control.

Kellys favorite watercolor of cattails on an autumn day.
Colorful squares painted by Kelly Bortles So

My Story

I grew up in Saline, Michigan, and my art reflects a mix of Midwest roots and a love for wild, atmospheric landscapes.

 

My path here wasn’t traditional. I studied Communication and Graphic Arts at Eastern Michigan University, built a career in government service, and then - during a 2020 art weekend - picked up a brush just for fun. A few rocks and acrylic paints later, I stumbled into watercolor in 2023, and it was love at first wash.

 

Self-taught at first (thanks, YouTube), I found my footing with Jean Haines’ Online Art School, where I learned to embrace looseness and flow. Now retired, I spend my days painting, traveling, and sharing watercolor with others.

 

That passion led me to create Beginners ONLY Watercolor -  classes built to make watercolor simple, welcoming, and fun. No rigid rules, no “right” style—just the essential techniques that help beginners build confidence, discover their voice, and fall in love with painting.

Thanks for stopping by.

Kelly

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Kelly and student

CONTACT

Kelly Bortles So

Saline, Michigan

water.color.kelly@gmail.com

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